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The Art of Murder #3
The Magician Murders
6 hours and 37 minutes.
Nothing up his sleeves. Nothing but murder...
Jason West, hot shot special agent with the FBI's Art Crime Team, is recuperating from a recent hit-and-run accident at the Wyoming home of BAU Chief Sam Kennedy when he's asked to aid in the investigation of a suspicious death in a National Forest.
When the dead man is found to be the Kosher Conjuror, a much-hated part-time magician accused of revealing the highly guarded secrets of professional illusionists, it seems clear this must be a simple revenge killing—until Jason realizes an earlier suspicious death at the trendy magic club Top Hat White Rabbit might be part of the same, much larger and more sinister, pattern.
Nothing up his sleeves. Nothing but murder...
Jason West, hot shot special agent with the FBI's Art Crime Team, is recuperating from a recent hit-and-run accident at the Wyoming home of BAU Chief Sam Kennedy when he's asked to aid in the investigation of a suspicious death in a National Forest.
When the dead man is found to be the Kosher Conjuror, a much-hated part-time magician accused of revealing the highly guarded secrets of professional illusionists, it seems clear this must be a simple revenge killing—until Jason realizes an earlier suspicious death at the trendy magic club Top Hat White Rabbit might be part of the same, much larger and more sinister, pattern.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 30, 2018
About the author
Josh Lanyon
188 books5,240 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 358 reviews
June 2, 2024
With this kind of ending, I'm really glad the next book is out. 😊
I still think that Sam and Jason are great. I enjoyed the relationship development, although there was a moment when I almost wanted to slap Jason. Luckily, it didn't last long. I loved that they got to spend more time together in this story.
The case they were working on is my least favourite so far. I'm not that into magic and magicians, so maybe it's just me. But I didn't find it as intriguing as in the previous books.
I still think that Sam and Jason are great. I enjoyed the relationship development, although there was a moment when I almost wanted to slap Jason. Luckily, it didn't last long. I loved that they got to spend more time together in this story.
The case they were working on is my least favourite so far. I'm not that into magic and magicians, so maybe it's just me. But I didn't find it as intriguing as in the previous books.
November 4, 2021
***4 ❤️***
Relationship-wise was this my favorite so far, plot-wise not. And I really do hate cliffhanger!!! Gahhh...
Edit November 2021: how's the saying ? Patience is a virtue? Don't know about that, but almost three and a half years later and that bloody cliffy will be history... Finally on to the next! 😉
Relationship-wise was this my favorite so far, plot-wise not. And I really do hate cliffhanger!!! Gahhh...
Edit November 2021: how's the saying ? Patience is a virtue? Don't know about that, but almost three and a half years later and that bloody cliffy will be history... Finally on to the next! 😉
May 27, 2018
This series is clearly one of the best!
It’s like reading a m/m romance master class project. Everything is absolutely spot on.
We have our (once again only) POV MC Agent Jason West, the sexy and cute art expert for the FBI’s Art Crime Division
And his (let’s just say it, even though you never know for sure) boyfriend, BAU Chief Sam Kennedy, who spends (all of) his time profiling serial killers.
How these two ever got together, only the first two books will answer. Because yes, they are an unlikely and unequal couple, which is the one big obstacle that the tension in the series largely draws from.
The plot is absolutely captivating, although I’m the first to say I’m not reading this for the mystery plots, but clearly for Sam and Jason. Their intimate moments are some of the best I have ever seen, probably because Sam and Jason aren’t the juiciest of couples and they do have their differences, so once they get down to some serious romance, it’s life-changing.
A few words about the plot. Sam and Jason’s previous cases are still more or less open, but the two guys take a few days off to just *be* a couple for a change. However, Jason trying to get Chinese take-out for Sam ends in a catastrophe and puts Jason on sick leave (once again).
However, this time, Sam talks Jason into going to his home town in Wyoming where his mom runs a ranch (among other things). Staying in Ruby Kennedy’s guest house, Jason tries to relax and heal, but is more or less just bored to death, especially when Sam announces to leave for two days to work on a case of his.
Luckily, Sam is gracious enough to allow Jason to take on an art crime consulting inquiry from the local FBI branch, helping the local agents find clues about a stolen collection of magic memorabilia (vintage posters of magician’s shows and artifacts from famous magicians like Houdini). Of course, a simple consulting job turns into a murder case with Jason right in the middle – as usual.
And with Jason’s injuries and Sam being out of town, things might turn deadly for our poor sexy art consultant slash FBI agent.
The plot was great. I loved the magic artifacts and tarot cards that were mentioned several times. I also loved how the whole book (like any book by Lanyon, I guess) has an overall theme that you find throughout the whole story. Even the sex scenes had a magician’s touch. It’s absolutely amazing and captivating.
I also love how the whole series is written from Jason’s POV. We never get to see inside Sam. I would even go as far as saying that Sam is the main riddle in the whole series. Sure, he gets unraveled more and more the further their relationship takes us – and so far, I like what I see – but Jason feels absolutely insecure and inferior when dealing with Sam and his wealth of experience, handling the – often brilliant, but almost always mad – monsters that are *his* serial killers.
Jason is an art expert, after all. He’s not one of those agents that shoot bad guys. He usually works with art galleries and websites to see where stolen art might show up, so he can retrieve it for the rightful owner.
This inequality in their relationship needs to be resolved in the course of this series, and OMG, watching them work through their issues is some of the best stuff that m/m romance has to offer.
Enough said. This is a 5 star favorite and one of my best reads in this year!
It’s like reading a m/m romance master class project. Everything is absolutely spot on.
We have our (once again only) POV MC Agent Jason West, the sexy and cute art expert for the FBI’s Art Crime Division
And his (let’s just say it, even though you never know for sure) boyfriend, BAU Chief Sam Kennedy, who spends (all of) his time profiling serial killers.
How these two ever got together, only the first two books will answer. Because yes, they are an unlikely and unequal couple, which is the one big obstacle that the tension in the series largely draws from.
The plot is absolutely captivating, although I’m the first to say I’m not reading this for the mystery plots, but clearly for Sam and Jason. Their intimate moments are some of the best I have ever seen, probably because Sam and Jason aren’t the juiciest of couples and they do have their differences, so once they get down to some serious romance, it’s life-changing.
A few words about the plot. Sam and Jason’s previous cases are still more or less open, but the two guys take a few days off to just *be* a couple for a change. However, Jason trying to get Chinese take-out for Sam ends in a catastrophe and puts Jason on sick leave (once again).
However, this time, Sam talks Jason into going to his home town in Wyoming where his mom runs a ranch (among other things). Staying in Ruby Kennedy’s guest house, Jason tries to relax and heal, but is more or less just bored to death, especially when Sam announces to leave for two days to work on a case of his.
Luckily, Sam is gracious enough to allow Jason to take on an art crime consulting inquiry from the local FBI branch, helping the local agents find clues about a stolen collection of magic memorabilia (vintage posters of magician’s shows and artifacts from famous magicians like Houdini). Of course, a simple consulting job turns into a murder case with Jason right in the middle – as usual.
And with Jason’s injuries and Sam being out of town, things might turn deadly for our poor sexy art consultant slash FBI agent.
The plot was great. I loved the magic artifacts and tarot cards that were mentioned several times. I also loved how the whole book (like any book by Lanyon, I guess) has an overall theme that you find throughout the whole story. Even the sex scenes had a magician’s touch. It’s absolutely amazing and captivating.
I also love how the whole series is written from Jason’s POV. We never get to see inside Sam. I would even go as far as saying that Sam is the main riddle in the whole series. Sure, he gets unraveled more and more the further their relationship takes us – and so far, I like what I see – but Jason feels absolutely insecure and inferior when dealing with Sam and his wealth of experience, handling the – often brilliant, but almost always mad – monsters that are *his* serial killers.
Jason is an art expert, after all. He’s not one of those agents that shoot bad guys. He usually works with art galleries and websites to see where stolen art might show up, so he can retrieve it for the rightful owner.
This inequality in their relationship needs to be resolved in the course of this series, and OMG, watching them work through their issues is some of the best stuff that m/m romance has to offer.
Enough said. This is a 5 star favorite and one of my best reads in this year!
July 18, 2022
Jason and Kennedy finally manage to wrangle some time off to enjoy a weekend together, only for our intrepid art detective to get assaulted on his way to the grocery store. For all the severe self-recriminations, and frustrating squabbles courtesy of his lover's sheltering attempts, the two protagonists manage to spend some serious quality time in a secluded location.
The not-so romantic part in all this, aside from the whole laying low because you have a stalker, is having to meet the mother(-in-law). Obviously Jason will inevitably get confronted with shadows from Kennedy's past, thus triggering several alarm bells that will put his self-worth through Hell. But hey, that's just the norm with families, right?!
You know, I actually liked the mystery aspect from this book. I can't honestly say I care about magic shows, aside from a vague interest in finding the trick. Getting to follow Jason and his young protege around the magicians' community of a Wyoming small town though, turned out to be lots of fun. Doubly so, due to our hero's recovering injuries which prevented him from more reckless actions. Or so Kennedy wanted to think... *cough*
Relationship-wise, it was interesting seeing a bit of Kennedy's background this time around, in spite of the bittersweet feelings that they evoked. I was sincerely surprised to see his mother grow on me during the course of the story, considering how much I disliked the way she brought up her son's murdered ex. I'm actually hoping I get to see more of her later on.
Score: 3/5 stars
Having finished the book almost a month ago, I seem to be struggling to recall many details. What I can say with certainty, is that I very much liked the magic-related aspects of the case, especially with Jason doing his damnest to ignore the murder aspects of it. I mean, he had promised!
Oh and I obviously loved the resolution of the inevitable fight our two protagonists got into. Kennedy may very well try the patience of any saint, but he can also apologize like no other. *swoons*
... and the story ended on a suitably creepy note, to have me immediately start on the sequel. What can I say? Binges always hit me hard.
=====================
Review of book 1: The Mermaid Murders
Review of book 2: The Monet Murders
Review of book 4: The Monuments Men Murders
Review of book 5: The Movie-Town Murders
The not-so romantic part in all this, aside from the whole laying low because you have a stalker, is having to meet the mother(-in-law). Obviously Jason will inevitably get confronted with shadows from Kennedy's past, thus triggering several alarm bells that will put his self-worth through Hell. But hey, that's just the norm with families, right?!
You know, I actually liked the mystery aspect from this book. I can't honestly say I care about magic shows, aside from a vague interest in finding the trick. Getting to follow Jason and his young protege around the magicians' community of a Wyoming small town though, turned out to be lots of fun. Doubly so, due to our hero's recovering injuries which prevented him from more reckless actions. Or so Kennedy wanted to think... *cough*
Relationship-wise, it was interesting seeing a bit of Kennedy's background this time around, in spite of the bittersweet feelings that they evoked. I was sincerely surprised to see his mother grow on me during the course of the story, considering how much I disliked the way she brought up her son's murdered ex. I'm actually hoping I get to see more of her later on.
Score: 3/5 stars
Having finished the book almost a month ago, I seem to be struggling to recall many details. What I can say with certainty, is that I very much liked the magic-related aspects of the case, especially with Jason doing his damnest to ignore the murder aspects of it. I mean, he had promised!
Oh and I obviously loved the resolution of the inevitable fight our two protagonists got into. Kennedy may very well try the patience of any saint, but he can also apologize like no other. *swoons*
... and the story ended on a suitably creepy note, to have me immediately start on the sequel. What can I say? Binges always hit me hard.
=====================
Review of book 1: The Mermaid Murders
Review of book 2: The Monet Murders
Review of book 4: The Monuments Men Murders
Review of book 5: The Movie-Town Murders
April 4, 2018
WINTER 2019!?!
LANYON, I COULD VERY WELL BE DEAD BY THEN.
--
a review with SPOILERS!
--
Wow. Okay. I really loved this. I did. Why a 4 and not a 5? Well, I wanted a littttle more out of the mystery plot. I guess it just didn't grab me the way The Mermaid Murders did. I did want more magic in the novel, and not metaphorically. I wanted there to be more actual things relating to magic.
Still, Lanyon's writing is on POINT with this book. It's seriously some of Lanyon's best written work yet. So many tidy sentences and beautiful structures.
And my poor boy, Jason. I also thought that certain person was the killer. I 100% thought so too...lol.
So... like many of my fellow reviewers have said, I wanted Sam and Jason's relationship to be a little further along at this point. Or (sorry, we're all comparing them to Adrien and Jake just a little, ok?) in a huge, massive burning building of flames, by this point (like in A & J book #3). They're just so.... *makes neck strangling hand gestures*
They don't communicate at all. And Jason is dramatic. And Sam is such a prick. And I love them both dearly, but come on.
Also, I thought there was going to be more of a story about Sam and Ruby. It seemed like there was going to be more and in the end it was wrapped up kind of with "and then Jason found out that Sam really did love and respect his mother". Which I totally understand but I think I wanted a little more out of that one.
Still.
I loved it very very very much. And just days prior I re-read the other 2 in the series.
And now I have to pray to satan or jesus (whoever can keep me alive longer) and take my vitamins and exercise regularly so that I don't drop dead before the next release in WINTER 2019 (!!!!!!!) so that I can find out exactly how Jason's favorite whack-a-doodle buddy is planning on skinning him alive.
Would I rec? Duh. Of course I would.
LANYON, I COULD VERY WELL BE DEAD BY THEN.
--
a review with SPOILERS!
--
Wow. Okay. I really loved this. I did. Why a 4 and not a 5? Well, I wanted a littttle more out of the mystery plot. I guess it just didn't grab me the way The Mermaid Murders did. I did want more magic in the novel, and not metaphorically. I wanted there to be more actual things relating to magic.
Still, Lanyon's writing is on POINT with this book. It's seriously some of Lanyon's best written work yet. So many tidy sentences and beautiful structures.
And my poor boy, Jason. I also thought that certain person was the killer. I 100% thought so too...lol.
So... like many of my fellow reviewers have said, I wanted Sam and Jason's relationship to be a little further along at this point. Or (sorry, we're all comparing them to Adrien and Jake just a little, ok?) in a huge, massive burning building of flames, by this point (like in A & J book #3). They're just so.... *makes neck strangling hand gestures*
They don't communicate at all. And Jason is dramatic. And Sam is such a prick. And I love them both dearly, but come on.
Also, I thought there was going to be more of a story about Sam and Ruby. It seemed like there was going to be more and in the end it was wrapped up kind of with "and then Jason found out that Sam really did love and respect his mother". Which I totally understand but I think I wanted a little more out of that one.
Still.
I loved it very very very much. And just days prior I re-read the other 2 in the series.
And now I have to pray to satan or jesus (whoever can keep me alive longer) and take my vitamins and exercise regularly so that I don't drop dead before the next release in WINTER 2019 (!!!!!!!) so that I can find out exactly how Jason's favorite whack-a-doodle buddy is planning on skinning him alive.
Would I rec? Duh. Of course I would.
April 9, 2018
Arghhh…stupid assumptions…I should have known better. This series about Sam and Jason, two FBI agents romantically involved, is not a trilogy….I don’t know if I’m glad about it, as I’m getting really fond of these guys, or sorry, because…cliffie and winter 2019 before more ☹
So, what do we have here : 2 career-oriented FBI agents, with an age-gap, each trying in their own way to build a relationship although it’s mostly a long-distance one, Jason needing to be on equal foot, and Sam afraid to hurt Jason. Since their first meeting, they have to deal with a case in each book, this time a quite simple one, and some escalating danger lurking in the background.
Less accent on the suspense and more focus on Sam and Jason’s relationship this time, to my delight. Their bond is getting stronger but there is still some work. Will they get their HEA and will they stop their stalker ???...damned these cliffies !!!
So, what do we have here : 2 career-oriented FBI agents, with an age-gap, each trying in their own way to build a relationship although it’s mostly a long-distance one, Jason needing to be on equal foot, and Sam afraid to hurt Jason. Since their first meeting, they have to deal with a case in each book, this time a quite simple one, and some escalating danger lurking in the background.
Less accent on the suspense and more focus on Sam and Jason’s relationship this time, to my delight. Their bond is getting stronger but there is still some work. Will they get their HEA and will they stop their stalker ???...damned these cliffies !!!
July 2, 2023
I can't wait.
I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.
I can't wait.
Reread June 2023: full rereview to come
I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.I can't wait. I can't wait.
I can't wait.
Reread June 2023: full rereview to come
October 12, 2022
my least favourite in the series so far, but that's mostly because of the case i think. i'm still liking the mcs and the romance, and i am curious to see what's gonna happen next.
February 24, 2022
I admit to holding my breath through a lot of this episode in the story of Jason and Sam . Since the story is told from Jason's POV, and Sam is (intentionally/habitually) hard to read, the reader can't help but share Jason's professional and personal anxieties. Plus Jason is injured and physically fragile, and stubbornly trying to ignore that. The mystery is layered and complex, and it wasn't until the near end that I could see which threads would be wound up and which will be continued in the next book. There was a surprising potential wind up . As usual, Lanyon's writing is lean, rich, and is interspersed with those luscious poetic passages, especially in the intimate scenes. Note the end of chapter 18 with the references to magic. They shouldn't work, but just do. Beautifully.
Josh Lanyon has a gift for picking locations and focal topics, in this case Wyoming and magicians' vintage collectibles, may seem an unlikely combo, but are engaging. Research really does pay off. We get a strong sense of place (and a strong sense of where Sam is coming from), and a taste of the community of magicians.
Agent Dreyfus asked the question that I also had . Not sure whether I agree with Elle Diamond's response, but it made me smile and was fitting to her character's experience. My own response to magicians has been akin to that of many others' response to clowns. This book and JCP's Magic Mansion have gentled that a bit.
Josh Lanyon has a gift for picking locations and focal topics, in this case Wyoming and magicians' vintage collectibles, may seem an unlikely combo, but are engaging. Research really does pay off. We get a strong sense of place (and a strong sense of where Sam is coming from), and a taste of the community of magicians.
Agent Dreyfus asked the question that I also had . Not sure whether I agree with Elle Diamond's response, but it made me smile and was fitting to her character's experience. My own response to magicians has been akin to that of many others' response to clowns. This book and JCP's Magic Mansion have gentled that a bit.
April 3, 2018
I think I have to settle with the fact that I may have to tone down my expectation when it comes to the mystery in this series. Mainly because Special Agent Jason West's specialty is Art Crime (emphasis on Art) and not homicides. So no, he doesn't really need to investigate murders and serial killers. And yes, I have to be satisfied with that.
In that sense, I actually enjoyed the mystery here MUCH better than book #2. I liked the magic / magician angle, and how passionate Jason was when hedefended explained the "historical and cultural significance" of magic arts and memorabilia. While Jason tried NOT to be involved with the murder angle -- when Jason discovered a couple of magicians have died in a strange way -- he actually ended up solving THAT as well, and that was a winner for him.
On the relationship angle, hey, Jason and Sam were moving forward ... albeit SLOOOWLY. Lanyon is the master of playing around with angst of established couple who have trouble communicating (or love with ex-es... seriously, Lanyon's ex-es romances are the BEST!). I loved the progress in here; and there was one moment where I actually felt my eyes got all teary.
I am glad that there is still another book in this series because the ending? THAT was awesomely thrilling! I got chills!
In that sense, I actually enjoyed the mystery here MUCH better than book #2. I liked the magic / magician angle, and how passionate Jason was when he
On the relationship angle, hey, Jason and Sam were moving forward ... albeit SLOOOWLY. Lanyon is the master of playing around with angst of established couple who have trouble communicating (or love with ex-es... seriously, Lanyon's ex-es romances are the BEST!). I loved the progress in here; and there was one moment where I actually felt my eyes got all teary.
I am glad that there is still another book in this series because the ending? THAT was awesomely thrilling! I got chills!
December 3, 2018
The audiobook is wonderful!
Loved it, just like most of Lanyon's work. I love being in Jason's head. He is smart and confident in all things...except his relationship with Sam. Jason is human and I relate to him so well. The mystery was really well done and I loved the bit of humor in this. I am also happy that this is not the end of Sam and Jason's story!
Loved it, just like most of Lanyon's work. I love being in Jason's head. He is smart and confident in all things...except his relationship with Sam. Jason is human and I relate to him so well. The mystery was really well done and I loved the bit of humor in this. I am also happy that this is not the end of Sam and Jason's story!
September 8, 2019
September 8, 2019: Here I am ready for book 4. Here I am ready for book 4. Here I am ready for book 4. Here I am ready for book 4. Here I am ready for book 4.
——
January 12, 2019: What a creepy last page! I assume that means the story is far from over. Good thing. I need more Sam and Jason.
——
January 12, 2019: What a creepy last page! I assume that means the story is far from over. Good thing. I need more Sam and Jason.
April 5, 2018
Wtf happened?
May 1, 2023
May 2023 audio
This ended abruptly, not sure how I didn't remember that. The case is solved, Sam and Jason are still together, though Jason returns home alone at the end and finds a not so good message from his favorite stalker. Then it ends. How did I forget about that? Anywho, still love this book, this series, and JL is forever my favorite author. Brilliant! On to the next!!!! :)
Feb 2021
I don't want to say goodbye!!!!! Each book is perfectly detailed and organized and I wish they were longer just because I do. 😛 I don't know what JL could add to make them longer, but hey, them reading the newspaper works for me. 😏 Read the series. You won't regret it. Brilliant work here.
2019
Loved it! And OMG, JL almost gave me a heart attack making me think these two were going to break up. I would not have been happy if that had happened, but as I predicted these are two mature adults who were able to allow themselves to be vulnerable and open up to each other. Sigh, all is good between them. :)
As for the murders? Yeesh! Can't take these two anywhere, lol. Jason is injured in a hit and run and can't remember a few critical minutes from the attack, which makes Sam worried and nervous. Who tried to kill/hurt Jason? There are a lot of possibilities, so Sam hurries Jason out of town and to his mothers place (guest house) to recuperate. Even though Jason was injured these two were able to enjoy their time together (tense almost break up aside). When Sam manages to get Jason brought in on a local "art" theft as a consultant (more or less), things really get crazy on their supposed vacation when bodies start appearing, tarot cards left behind mimic the murders, and some local magicians are acting strange(r than usual).
Like I said, I loved it! Super tense moments during the hunt for the killer, but there was some comedy tossed in which is so cool to see Sam relax that way. Of course they get their man and I have to say I was surprised how everything played out. What wasn't a surprise was the ending, which I was expecting as it follows the other books endings. I can't wait to read more of this series and JL has promised more in 2019, so yay!
Oh, and we learn a little more about Ethan, which I liked. Sam is a complex man who doesn't open up to people and share. He doesn't see the point in harping on things from the past, and he doesn't think (beyond him joining the FBI) that his past has anything to do with his present. Jason is of course feeling insecure because of Sam's feelings about Ethan. And since Sam doesn't talk about Ethan, or what happened to him, Jason can't help but think Sam loved Ethan more than he does Jason. Which we all know (now at least) not to be the case. Sam doesn't see Ethan as having anything to do with him or Jason and their relationship. But he can finally see that Jason needs something from him because even though Sam doesn't think of Ethan as important (he's important, just not how Jason is thinking), he needs to show that to Jason. And they are able to move past Ethan. JL knows how to add the drama for sure! I didn't want to stop reading!
5 stars and I can't wait to read this series all over again, and again, and again! :-D Of course I highly recommend, but this isn't a standalone - series must be read in order.
This ended abruptly, not sure how I didn't remember that. The case is solved, Sam and Jason are still together, though Jason returns home alone at the end and finds a not so good message from his favorite stalker. Then it ends. How did I forget about that? Anywho, still love this book, this series, and JL is forever my favorite author. Brilliant! On to the next!!!! :)
Feb 2021
I don't want to say goodbye!!!!! Each book is perfectly detailed and organized and I wish they were longer just because I do. 😛 I don't know what JL could add to make them longer, but hey, them reading the newspaper works for me. 😏 Read the series. You won't regret it. Brilliant work here.
2019
Loved it! And OMG, JL almost gave me a heart attack making me think these two were going to break up. I would not have been happy if that had happened, but as I predicted these are two mature adults who were able to allow themselves to be vulnerable and open up to each other. Sigh, all is good between them. :)
As for the murders? Yeesh! Can't take these two anywhere, lol. Jason is injured in a hit and run and can't remember a few critical minutes from the attack, which makes Sam worried and nervous. Who tried to kill/hurt Jason? There are a lot of possibilities, so Sam hurries Jason out of town and to his mothers place (guest house) to recuperate. Even though Jason was injured these two were able to enjoy their time together (tense almost break up aside). When Sam manages to get Jason brought in on a local "art" theft as a consultant (more or less), things really get crazy on their supposed vacation when bodies start appearing, tarot cards left behind mimic the murders, and some local magicians are acting strange(r than usual).
Like I said, I loved it! Super tense moments during the hunt for the killer, but there was some comedy tossed in which is so cool to see Sam relax that way. Of course they get their man and I have to say I was surprised how everything played out. What wasn't a surprise was the ending, which I was expecting as it follows the other books endings. I can't wait to read more of this series and JL has promised more in 2019, so yay!
Oh, and we learn a little more about Ethan, which I liked. Sam is a complex man who doesn't open up to people and share. He doesn't see the point in harping on things from the past, and he doesn't think (beyond him joining the FBI) that his past has anything to do with his present. Jason is of course feeling insecure because of Sam's feelings about Ethan. And since Sam doesn't talk about Ethan, or what happened to him, Jason can't help but think Sam loved Ethan more than he does Jason. Which we all know (now at least) not to be the case. Sam doesn't see Ethan as having anything to do with him or Jason and their relationship. But he can finally see that Jason needs something from him because even though Sam doesn't think of Ethan as important (he's important, just not how Jason is thinking), he needs to show that to Jason. And they are able to move past Ethan. JL knows how to add the drama for sure! I didn't want to stop reading!
5 stars and I can't wait to read this series all over again, and again, and again! :-D Of course I highly recommend, but this isn't a standalone - series must be read in order.
March 24, 2024
Liked the murder mystery plot but did not love it. 🤷♀️ I’m not really a “magic” fan.. and the conclusion was abrupt without explaining the why behind the murders.. Also it ended in a cliffhanger of sorts on an ongoing story that started in the first book.
However, what I loved about this book was the relationship development.. 🥰 and all the heart to heart conversations/ arguments.. loved all the intimacy too.. even though it wasn’t a lot. Although the future for both Jason and Sam is unknown.. I feel their commitment. Highly recommended!! 👍🏻👍🏻
However, what I loved about this book was the relationship development.. 🥰 and all the heart to heart conversations/ arguments.. loved all the intimacy too.. even though it wasn’t a lot. Although the future for both Jason and Sam is unknown.. I feel their commitment. Highly recommended!! 👍🏻👍🏻
November 26, 2020
Another five stars for Josh Lanyon's excellent book. I love the development of the two MCs, the tensions and resolutions in their ongoing relationship - very convincing indeed. I enjoyed the current case and also the ongoing arc - I found the ending particularly chilling and can't wait for the next book!
September 24, 2021
The only magic I still believe in is love.
As soon as I finished reading this book I thanked god that I am reading it now, and not when the book was released(2019). Because waiting for a year for the release of the next book with this kind of cliffhanger, must be brutal.
And, the cliffhanger came out of the blue since we have not suffered one in the previous two books of the series. I hope this is not the case in the next book because we still have two months left for the release of 5th book.🤭🤭
Okay, enough of me and my inability to handle cliffhangers. Let's talk about the present book which is the 3rd book in the Art of Murder series. In this book, the case revolves around a robbery from a magician's house, random killings of magicians and a personal attack on Jason.
The case was not as interesting as the previous two cases but in this book, we get a ton of scenes of Sam and Jason together. But, don't think it's going to be fluffy because Miss Lanyon does not like fluffy, cosy chit-chat between MCs, even when they are on vacation. Here, we get to see insecurities and the author's fav ex-factor.😩😩 But, still, the relationship development was better than in previous books.
So, my four-star rating is dedicated mainly to brooding, grouchy Sam and confused but adorable Jason. Yes, I am going to start the next book asap.
Love wasn’t always enough, but it was surely three-quarters of the equation.
Art of Murder series
1. The mermaid murder-4star
2. The money murders-4Star
3. The Magician murder-4Star
As soon as I finished reading this book I thanked god that I am reading it now, and not when the book was released(2019). Because waiting for a year for the release of the next book with this kind of cliffhanger, must be brutal.
And, the cliffhanger came out of the blue since we have not suffered one in the previous two books of the series. I hope this is not the case in the next book because we still have two months left for the release of 5th book.🤭🤭
Okay, enough of me and my inability to handle cliffhangers. Let's talk about the present book which is the 3rd book in the Art of Murder series. In this book, the case revolves around a robbery from a magician's house, random killings of magicians and a personal attack on Jason.
The case was not as interesting as the previous two cases but in this book, we get a ton of scenes of Sam and Jason together. But, don't think it's going to be fluffy because Miss Lanyon does not like fluffy, cosy chit-chat between MCs, even when they are on vacation. Here, we get to see insecurities and the author's fav ex-factor.😩😩 But, still, the relationship development was better than in previous books.
So, my four-star rating is dedicated mainly to brooding, grouchy Sam and confused but adorable Jason. Yes, I am going to start the next book asap.
Love wasn’t always enough, but it was surely three-quarters of the equation.
Art of Murder series
1. The mermaid murder-4star
2. The money murders-4Star
3. The Magician murder-4Star
March 12, 2019
Murder never rests.
Jason West is recuperating in Wyoming after a vicious attack. Yep, the ardent FBI agent for California art crimes is languishing, or recovering at his might-be boyfriend Sam Kennedy's mother's ranch. You read that right. In three books, Jason has succeeded in his quasi relationship with Sam leaps and bounds beyond what Adrien managed with Jake. So diehard Lanyon fans can be reassured that you are not on the same hamster wheel. No guarantees about the angst.
Wyoming has its rustic charm and a field office that has no idea what to do about a large art heist. Bank robberies, yes, guns ablazing. Art theft, much head scratching ensues. So Sam, being the local boy gets Jason to do an unofficial consult before he goes cabin crazy. Jason seems to be a trouble magnet and things start to slide sideways, fast. To be fair, it's not all his fault.
Get your Magic Castle itch scratched and indulge in some dare doing and creepy 'it feels like evil clowns' vibe.
*Many Faces Challenge
Jason West is recuperating in Wyoming after a vicious attack. Yep, the ardent FBI agent for California art crimes is languishing, or recovering at his might-be boyfriend Sam Kennedy's mother's ranch. You read that right. In three books, Jason has succeeded in his quasi relationship with Sam leaps and bounds beyond what Adrien managed with Jake. So diehard Lanyon fans can be reassured that you are not on the same hamster wheel. No guarantees about the angst.
Wyoming has its rustic charm and a field office that has no idea what to do about a large art heist. Bank robberies, yes, guns ablazing. Art theft, much head scratching ensues. So Sam, being the local boy gets Jason to do an unofficial consult before he goes cabin crazy. Jason seems to be a trouble magnet and things start to slide sideways, fast. To be fair, it's not all his fault.
Get your Magic Castle itch scratched and indulge in some dare doing and creepy 'it feels like evil clowns' vibe.
*Many Faces Challenge
December 6, 2022
It took me a LONG time to finish this one & im not sure why.
It must be me, because I really like this series.
Here goes:
Jason survives attempted kidnapping
Goes on medical leave with Sam in Wyoming
Art theft
Jason can’t stay out of a case
Magicians!
Are they nutty or what?
Someone is murdered
Lots of suspects
Sam and Jason solve the case
And Lanyon sets us up for the next book!
My rec? A SOLID MM Romance mystery series, each with a new case, and an overarching stalking theme throughout. Yup.
It must be me, because I really like this series.
Here goes:
Jason survives attempted kidnapping
Goes on medical leave with Sam in Wyoming
Art theft
Jason can’t stay out of a case
Magicians!
Are they nutty or what?
Someone is murdered
Lots of suspects
Sam and Jason solve the case
And Lanyon sets us up for the next book!
My rec? A SOLID MM Romance mystery series, each with a new case, and an overarching stalking theme throughout. Yup.
July 13, 2020
Not liking this series as much as the other one...
3.5 stars rounded down. The mystery is just not that interesting to me. Not all that suspenseful or gripping. And the romance is fine, but it's not like I read these books for the romance and sexy times. They're few and far between. So if the plot isn't gripping, the rest is meh.
Still love Sam. Still like Jason (despite his "cheating" in book 2). Wish we actually saw things from Sam's POV... but part of why I love him is also his mystery so there's that.
On to the next! And unfortunately it doesn't seem to be the last one, so the central mystery with Jeremy Kyser will likely escalate but not get resolved. Bah Humbug!
3.5 stars rounded down. The mystery is just not that interesting to me. Not all that suspenseful or gripping. And the romance is fine, but it's not like I read these books for the romance and sexy times. They're few and far between. So if the plot isn't gripping, the rest is meh.
Still love Sam. Still like Jason (despite his "cheating" in book 2). Wish we actually saw things from Sam's POV... but part of why I love him is also his mystery so there's that.
On to the next! And unfortunately it doesn't seem to be the last one, so the central mystery with Jeremy Kyser will likely escalate but not get resolved. Bah Humbug!
April 2, 2018
The Magician Murders is a thoroughly satisfying, gripping third book of Josh Lanyon's The Art of Murder series. This series is fast becoming one of my all time favorites with its unlikely but oh so intriguing main couple!
The aftermath of a creepy assault on Jason's life forces Jason West and Sam Kennedy to take some time off in Sam's childhood surroundings. Almost magically bodies start to pile wherever these two go. In no time they're not only trying to figure out who is after Jason, but also who in earth is wreaking havoc in the close-knit magician circles.
I hugely enjoyed the twists and turns of this sparkling mystery and the new shining characters introduced to us. It's fun to witness how Lanyon so skillfully weaves magic into every aspect of the story, not forgetting the bedroom...
I love how this book sheds light on Sam and his past life. The story raises some ghosts from the past but also soothes some concerns our main couple are struggling with. Both men are clearly making an effort—in their own way—to understand each other and to stay together.
Like always, Lanyon shows us a realistic relationship struggle to which we can relate. While Jason is mulling over their situation with much thought and feeling, considering all details of Sam's actions over and over again, is Sam slowly but surely taking his first baby steps in the stormy waters of his first serious adult life relationship. And because Sam is Sam—a fascinating mix of straightforwardness, restraint and caring—the story is about to get REALLY interesting.
The Magician Murders had me biting my nails, laughing, awwing and oohing. I bet it will do the same to you. I highly recommend reading this—it's guaranteed Lanyon quality.
The aftermath of a creepy assault on Jason's life forces Jason West and Sam Kennedy to take some time off in Sam's childhood surroundings. Almost magically bodies start to pile wherever these two go. In no time they're not only trying to figure out who is after Jason, but also who in earth is wreaking havoc in the close-knit magician circles.
I hugely enjoyed the twists and turns of this sparkling mystery and the new shining characters introduced to us. It's fun to witness how Lanyon so skillfully weaves magic into every aspect of the story, not forgetting the bedroom...
I love how this book sheds light on Sam and his past life. The story raises some ghosts from the past but also soothes some concerns our main couple are struggling with. Both men are clearly making an effort—in their own way—to understand each other and to stay together.
Like always, Lanyon shows us a realistic relationship struggle to which we can relate. While Jason is mulling over their situation with much thought and feeling, considering all details of Sam's actions over and over again, is Sam slowly but surely taking his first baby steps in the stormy waters of his first serious adult life relationship. And because Sam is Sam—a fascinating mix of straightforwardness, restraint and caring—the story is about to get REALLY interesting.
The Magician Murders had me biting my nails, laughing, awwing and oohing. I bet it will do the same to you. I highly recommend reading this—it's guaranteed Lanyon quality.
June 13, 2023
Wow look at me picking up the next book straight away 😂
The Magician Murders might be my favourite in the series so far. Jason and Sam are fully in the relationship, even though their respective jobs means that it's long distance for stretches of time and there're hiccups every now and again. Namely a hit-and-run and Sam's downplaying his investigation as to why Jason was targeted.
The case here involves some valuable stolen magician art artifacts, a messy separation of the owners, and the murder of one half of the broken couple. The main suspect may seem obvious, but the victim was not short of enemies, as he made his money exposing other magician's secrets.
__
The beginning section of this book was everything, I loved the domestic bliss of Jason and Sam having free time and spending it together. And even though it was short-lived, the hit-and-run did lead to Sam bringing Jason to meet his mother, to stay and recoup in the guest house on the property he bought her.
Plot and romance wise, Lanyon outdid herself with this one! I'm going to dive right into book four.
The Magician Murders might be my favourite in the series so far. Jason and Sam are fully in the relationship, even though their respective jobs means that it's long distance for stretches of time and there're hiccups every now and again. Namely a hit-and-run and Sam's downplaying his investigation as to why Jason was targeted.
The case here involves some valuable stolen magician art artifacts, a messy separation of the owners, and the murder of one half of the broken couple. The main suspect may seem obvious, but the victim was not short of enemies, as he made his money exposing other magician's secrets.
__
The beginning section of this book was everything, I loved the domestic bliss of Jason and Sam having free time and spending it together. And even though it was short-lived, the hit-and-run did lead to Sam bringing Jason to meet his mother, to stay and recoup in the guest house on the property he bought her.
Plot and romance wise, Lanyon outdid herself with this one! I'm going to dive right into book four.
May 21, 2018
Overall book rating: 4.5
Audio Book: Kale Williams – 4.5
Book Cover: 4
First of let me just say once again that Kale Williams does this SO well! I love it!
Second, if I don’t fan girl about the two MC’s I’ll be untrue to myself. I don’t know what it is about the way Josh Lanyon writes characters but I love it.
I absolutely LOVE both Sam and Jason. They are unique and so real. Jason with his emotions pretty much on his sleeve, I just break for him when he tries to keep it under wraps. His thought process and feelings makes my heart ache at times. Both from sweet and sad. He’s no push over but he feels things so well.
Sam is Sam. He’s NOT an open book and his way of handling and caring for Jason is unique to him. I love him in his own way. I find him interesting and I get super excited for every crumb we get off his table regarding his feelings and emotions for Jason. It’s hard fought and so worth it.
I loved the way the story opens and of course, I’m hanging on the edge of my seat to see where this will go. It’s a cliffy but I think it ends in a way you can ‘live” with.
I’m rooting for these guys! Like so hard my eyes are stinging!
Audio Book: Kale Williams – 4.5
Book Cover: 4
First of let me just say once again that Kale Williams does this SO well! I love it!
Second, if I don’t fan girl about the two MC’s I’ll be untrue to myself. I don’t know what it is about the way Josh Lanyon writes characters but I love it.
I absolutely LOVE both Sam and Jason. They are unique and so real. Jason with his emotions pretty much on his sleeve, I just break for him when he tries to keep it under wraps. His thought process and feelings makes my heart ache at times. Both from sweet and sad. He’s no push over but he feels things so well.
Sam is Sam. He’s NOT an open book and his way of handling and caring for Jason is unique to him. I love him in his own way. I find him interesting and I get super excited for every crumb we get off his table regarding his feelings and emotions for Jason. It’s hard fought and so worth it.
I loved the way the story opens and of course, I’m hanging on the edge of my seat to see where this will go. It’s a cliffy but I think it ends in a way you can ‘live” with.
I’m rooting for these guys! Like so hard my eyes are stinging!
December 10, 2022
I'm done with this series.
Lanyon's gone from auto-buy to maybe-buy to check-price-approach-with-caution; which is sad because she can write.
Keep waiting for something to click, but this is book three and instead of a pattern developing it's lingering on with a heavy threat of derailment.
Mystery
Jason West is art crimes. This doesn't thrill me, more paper than blood, but ok. We're told he's a hotshot going places.
Unfortunately he reads young and inexperienced which contradicts that. This highly trained FBI agent never seems to investigate the art trail, instead fumbling about murder cases. For an amateur sleuth it would be more endearing but he's FBI!
Tarot card murders. This seems a Lanyon theme. Somehow even a chase through a funhouse read dull.
Romance
Sam Kennedy is senior in age and agency position. He doesn't seem to respect Jason much. Neither expect the relationship to last or appear willing to commit to it. Aside from knowing Sam is fit for his age there's little connection there. They're most definitely not equal but at this point there's no building of anything to counteract that. They don't believe in it so neither do I.
Lanyon's gone from auto-buy to maybe-buy to check-price-approach-with-caution; which is sad because she can write.
Keep waiting for something to click, but this is book three and instead of a pattern developing it's lingering on with a heavy threat of derailment.
Mystery
Jason West is art crimes. This doesn't thrill me, more paper than blood, but ok. We're told he's a hotshot going places.
Unfortunately he reads young and inexperienced which contradicts that. This highly trained FBI agent never seems to investigate the art trail, instead fumbling about murder cases. For an amateur sleuth it would be more endearing but he's FBI!
Tarot card murders. This seems a Lanyon theme. Somehow even a chase through a funhouse read dull.
Romance
Sam Kennedy is senior in age and agency position. He doesn't seem to respect Jason much. Neither expect the relationship to last or appear willing to commit to it. Aside from knowing Sam is fit for his age there's little connection there. They're most definitely not equal but at this point there's no building of anything to counteract that. They don't believe in it so neither do I.
July 27, 2023
7/26/23 Audio Re-Listen (again)
I think this is my favorite book in this series. I enjoy it so much every time I listen to it. Kale Williams is the perfect voice for these characters, this is his best work I’ve heard so far. This book also has the hottest scene in any Lanyon book I’ve read, and there have been a lot.
I think my favorite part of this book is Jason and Sam being able to spend more time together. They’re still figuring out their relationship and it’s a bit precarious but they just fit. I love the setting being in Wyoming and we meet Sam’s mom, Ruby. The magic angle of the mystery is exciting and fun. The ending is so creepy too!
___________________________________________________
Audio re-listen
Story: 5 stars
Audio: 5 stars
This is a wonderful addition to this series and Kale Williams is such a great narrator for Jason and Sam! I love how this had them going to Sam’s mothers house in Wyoming and the magic case Jason got involved in. The mystery was fun and he relationship aspect showed growth.
I think this is my favorite book in this series. I enjoy it so much every time I listen to it. Kale Williams is the perfect voice for these characters, this is his best work I’ve heard so far. This book also has the hottest scene in any Lanyon book I’ve read, and there have been a lot.
I think my favorite part of this book is Jason and Sam being able to spend more time together. They’re still figuring out their relationship and it’s a bit precarious but they just fit. I love the setting being in Wyoming and we meet Sam’s mom, Ruby. The magic angle of the mystery is exciting and fun. The ending is so creepy too!
___________________________________________________
Audio re-listen
Story: 5 stars
Audio: 5 stars
This is a wonderful addition to this series and Kale Williams is such a great narrator for Jason and Sam! I love how this had them going to Sam’s mothers house in Wyoming and the magic case Jason got involved in. The mystery was fun and he relationship aspect showed growth.
June 10, 2018
WTH was this? It started with an assault, moved on to this Magician Murders thingy only to then end with returning to the beginning and ending with - an open end. Great. And for that I worked through all these pages? I looked up my review for book #2 which ended with 'let's hope the next book will be better'. I have to say, nope it wasn't. And I think I'm done with this series.
Besides - next book Winter 2019 (with this author it's more probable to be summer 2020), I'm safe to say then I won't remember anything about this book.
Besides - next book Winter 2019 (with this author it's more probable to be summer 2020), I'm safe to say then I won't remember anything about this book.
April 29, 2018
This is a heckuvan enjoyable read. The pacing was spot on, with just one small stretch seeming to carry on a bit too long. Don't separate your leads unless you absolutely must, and definitely don't do it if there isn't much of an explanation as to why one had to leave. 24 hours in a book can = many pages.
Innywho, that's probably my only gripe about this book. Jason is as uncertain as he is confident, desirous of a long-term relationship as he is hesitant to upend his current life for a possible one with Sam on the opposite coast, and he's not always the best listener. Or rather, he doesn't always let something sink in before galloping towards conclusions. I get it, West, you're flying around in an X-Wing when Sam is more suited to the speed of a Taun Taun when it comes to processing and reacting to new information.
I very much like Jason as the narrator even if he makes my head spin a bit sometimes.
Sam is still somewhat of an unfinished puzzle. We get more pieces here than in the first two stories in this series, but I'm still doing a head tilt now and then. He does have intense and deep feelings for Jason. He also shows Jason how he feels, offering more and more small but important gestures... he's getting teasingly close to swoon-worthiness.
These two have major chemistry, actually talk about stuff, argue, but ultimately arrive at the same place, even if they disagree on where that is. Most of all, they admit, in word and more so in action, that they want to be together.
The cast of supporting characters is well-utilized in advancing plot lines, tossing around doubt like candy at a parade, and provided additional glimpses into Sam, in particular.
The mystery is pretty well-constructed, and I even almost fell for one of the red herrings. There are several points at which my adrenaline was pumping, that's for sure. Same goes for the level of emotions coming from Jason. My heart was aching, then hopeful, sad, and then excited... for the next book!
Yes, that's right, there's to be another. :)
Innywho, that's probably my only gripe about this book. Jason is as uncertain as he is confident, desirous of a long-term relationship as he is hesitant to upend his current life for a possible one with Sam on the opposite coast, and he's not always the best listener. Or rather, he doesn't always let something sink in before galloping towards conclusions. I get it, West, you're flying around in an X-Wing when Sam is more suited to the speed of a Taun Taun when it comes to processing and reacting to new information.
I very much like Jason as the narrator even if he makes my head spin a bit sometimes.
Sam is still somewhat of an unfinished puzzle. We get more pieces here than in the first two stories in this series, but I'm still doing a head tilt now and then. He does have intense and deep feelings for Jason. He also shows Jason how he feels, offering more and more small but important gestures... he's getting teasingly close to swoon-worthiness.
These two have major chemistry, actually talk about stuff, argue, but ultimately arrive at the same place, even if they disagree on where that is. Most of all, they admit, in word and more so in action, that they want to be together.
The cast of supporting characters is well-utilized in advancing plot lines, tossing around doubt like candy at a parade, and provided additional glimpses into Sam, in particular.
The mystery is pretty well-constructed, and I even almost fell for one of the red herrings. There are several points at which my adrenaline was pumping, that's for sure. Same goes for the level of emotions coming from Jason. My heart was aching, then hopeful, sad, and then excited... for the next book!
Yes, that's right, there's to be another. :)
July 1, 2022
2022 reread: I find it funny that I unknowingly wrote basically the SAME last paragraph for the The Movie-Town Murders that I did for this book. While the first two books in the series were SO GOOD, this one was .... lesser. It didn't hang together as well as the first two, and Jason continues to irritate, while also managing at the end of the book to force Sam to a realization that he needs, darn it, it order to progress with this relationship, and not solely on his terms. Another 3.5 stars.
2018:Don't know WHAT I was doing when this third book in The Art of Murder series was released, but reading it now at least makes the wait until the next book in the series (due Winter of 2019) a bit shorter!
The book starts with an assault against Jason, which brings Sam and Jason to Wyoming on a 2-week vacation in order for Jason to recover, and for Sam to work on his book. There is initially a lot of plot involving this assault, but it is left hanging throughout most of the book.
I really went back-and-forth on the murder / mystery aspect of the story involving the theft of a art collection and murder in the Cheyenne, WY area. There is a lot of detail, but also a huge amount of various tangents that seem to fizzle out into nothing, and the resolution was sort of slapped on without too much ado. We meet Sam's mother and get a bit more insight into his childhood, but I would have liked a bit more scenes with Sam and his mother to get a better sense of their dynamic.
Jason and Sam's relationship here runs the gambit from A to B, in that Jason is continually upset with Sam, decides their relationship is over .... and then reconsiders ... rinse, lather, repeat. Jason was frankly irritating for most of this book, IMHO.
I get the feeling that, placed in that larger context of The Art of Murder series, this book will eventually make sense, but for now it seems like a repository for half-solved plots and snippets of relationship issues. Plus ..... total complete cliffhanger ... I don't ever know how to feel about that whole weirdness. AARRGGHH. 3.5 stars.
2018:Don't know WHAT I was doing when this third book in The Art of Murder series was released, but reading it now at least makes the wait until the next book in the series (due Winter of 2019) a bit shorter!
The book starts with an assault against Jason, which brings Sam and Jason to Wyoming on a 2-week vacation in order for Jason to recover, and for Sam to work on his book. There is initially a lot of plot involving this assault, but it is left hanging throughout most of the book.
I really went back-and-forth on the murder / mystery aspect of the story involving the theft of a art collection and murder in the Cheyenne, WY area. There is a lot of detail, but also a huge amount of various tangents that seem to fizzle out into nothing, and the resolution was sort of slapped on without too much ado. We meet Sam's mother and get a bit more insight into his childhood, but I would have liked a bit more scenes with Sam and his mother to get a better sense of their dynamic.
Jason and Sam's relationship here runs the gambit from A to B, in that Jason is continually upset with Sam, decides their relationship is over .... and then reconsiders ... rinse, lather, repeat. Jason was frankly irritating for most of this book, IMHO.
I get the feeling that, placed in that larger context of The Art of Murder series, this book will eventually make sense, but for now it seems like a repository for half-solved plots and snippets of relationship issues. Plus ..... total complete cliffhanger ... I don't ever know how to feel about that whole weirdness. AARRGGHH. 3.5 stars.
October 22, 2018
Apart from the one in the first book, the mysteries in this series aren’t the best I’ve read by Josh Lanyon, but Jason and Sam’s relationship more than make up for it.
I love how they are slowly figuring out their way around a long-distance relationship, further complicated by all the struggles of what’s essentially a new relationship, with so many things they still don’t know about each other. It’s not easy, but as Jason so eloquently put it: “every time they weathered one of these conflicts, he felt like they were that much stronger, understood each other that much better”.
I also love the horizontal plot, I understand now why some readers weren’t happy with the ending, but it didn’t bother me much. I was expecting the . I don’t really consider it a cliffhanger, although I do wish the next book was already out.
I love how they are slowly figuring out their way around a long-distance relationship, further complicated by all the struggles of what’s essentially a new relationship, with so many things they still don’t know about each other. It’s not easy, but as Jason so eloquently put it: “every time they weathered one of these conflicts, he felt like they were that much stronger, understood each other that much better”.
I also love the horizontal plot, I understand now why some readers weren’t happy with the ending, but it didn’t bother me much. I was expecting the . I don’t really consider it a cliffhanger, although I do wish the next book was already out.
September 6, 2021
It's been a hot second since I mentioned how much I love Josh Lanyon's writing, so here I am, ready to wax poetic about Book 3 in the Art of Murder series: The Magician Murders! FBI agents, Jason West of Art Crime and Sam Kennedy of Behavioral Analysis, are back for more head-butting, Come To Jesus Moments, mystery, and of course, murder.
After the rocky events of The Monet Murders, our beloved duo are finally a couple and are navigating a long-distance relationship that, if either man were less of a workaholic, probably would have crashed and burned. But Jason is ambitious and dead-set on climbing the ranks, and Sam is on a one-man mission to rid the country of brutal killers, so they somehow, someway, make it work. Jason is visiting Quantico for run-of-the-mill, mandatory training, so he's spending those few days at Sam's place, squeezing in some quality time together. But a simple drive to go pick up some Chinese takeout ends in Jason being attacked in the parking lot, shot up with drugs, and his attempted kidnapping failing only because he managed to fight, to run, and someone driving down a back road around the restaurant clipped him and spooked the attacker.
And by attacker, we mean none other than favorite weirdo from the long ago Mermaid Murders, Dr. Jeremy Kyser. I mean, right?
Sam and Jason make an impromptu trip to Wyoming to stay at Sam's mother's home, where Jason can recuperate in peace and safety, and Sam can figure out exactly what is happening, which action to take first, and where to draw his line of defense in the sand. His obsession, unsurprisingly, leads to a very emotional, heart-wrenching moment between the heroes where they both have to confront fears and weaknesses and be willing to grow, or ultimately, move on, from that conversation. And this scene—no spoilers—is why I respect and adore Lanyon so much as a storyteller. The reader doesn't need to be an FBI agent, to be a victim of assault or stalking, or even be in the at-times, curious relationship Jason and Sam have, to understand the humanity of the moment. The emotions experienced are universal: grief, fear, vulnerability, love, hope. She has a way of sneaking these moments up on the reader. You get all amped up, ready for a fight, and instead it's a quiet and subdued interaction, and every single emotion plays across the page in slow motion. The vividness of these kinds of scenes always leave me devastated in all the best ways.
One aspect of the last three books I've loved tremendously and endears readers to Jason (who, and I say this with nothing but adoration, can sometimes be... silly) are the incidents where he finds himself isolated from help and has to "go at it" alone. Book 1 had the flooded basement, Book 2 the mausoleum on the island, and Book 3 the fun house—which I think was my favorite just because of how wild and bizarre it was!
This was another fantastic title in one of my all-time favorite series, and did I mention that ending? Holy crap, talk about terrifying. You absolutely need to check out this series if you haven't yet!
After the rocky events of The Monet Murders, our beloved duo are finally a couple and are navigating a long-distance relationship that, if either man were less of a workaholic, probably would have crashed and burned. But Jason is ambitious and dead-set on climbing the ranks, and Sam is on a one-man mission to rid the country of brutal killers, so they somehow, someway, make it work. Jason is visiting Quantico for run-of-the-mill, mandatory training, so he's spending those few days at Sam's place, squeezing in some quality time together. But a simple drive to go pick up some Chinese takeout ends in Jason being attacked in the parking lot, shot up with drugs, and his attempted kidnapping failing only because he managed to fight, to run, and someone driving down a back road around the restaurant clipped him and spooked the attacker.
And by attacker, we mean none other than favorite weirdo from the long ago Mermaid Murders, Dr. Jeremy Kyser. I mean, right?
Sam and Jason make an impromptu trip to Wyoming to stay at Sam's mother's home, where Jason can recuperate in peace and safety, and Sam can figure out exactly what is happening, which action to take first, and where to draw his line of defense in the sand. His obsession, unsurprisingly, leads to a very emotional, heart-wrenching moment between the heroes where they both have to confront fears and weaknesses and be willing to grow, or ultimately, move on, from that conversation. And this scene—no spoilers—is why I respect and adore Lanyon so much as a storyteller. The reader doesn't need to be an FBI agent, to be a victim of assault or stalking, or even be in the at-times, curious relationship Jason and Sam have, to understand the humanity of the moment. The emotions experienced are universal: grief, fear, vulnerability, love, hope. She has a way of sneaking these moments up on the reader. You get all amped up, ready for a fight, and instead it's a quiet and subdued interaction, and every single emotion plays across the page in slow motion. The vividness of these kinds of scenes always leave me devastated in all the best ways.
One aspect of the last three books I've loved tremendously and endears readers to Jason (who, and I say this with nothing but adoration, can sometimes be... silly) are the incidents where he finds himself isolated from help and has to "go at it" alone. Book 1 had the flooded basement, Book 2 the mausoleum on the island, and Book 3 the fun house—which I think was my favorite just because of how wild and bizarre it was!
This was another fantastic title in one of my all-time favorite series, and did I mention that ending? Holy crap, talk about terrifying. You absolutely need to check out this series if you haven't yet!
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