In the second book in the Jake Paynter western series, author David Nix takes readers to the Wyoming Territory in 1869. Most of the story takes place In the second book in the Jake Paynter western series, author David Nix takes readers to the Wyoming Territory in 1869. Most of the story takes place in and around South Pass City, an area with ranches and, more recently, adventurers and immigrants searching for gold. The author weaves mystery, action, and overwhelming odds into a fight for justice in this historical western crime thriller.
Jake Paynter is a wanted man with a $1000 bounty on this head. This means every outlaw, bounty hunter, and lawman is looking for him. He’s been living with the Shoshone for several months when he decides it’s time to hide out in Yellowstone. However, his friends, Gus Rivers and Stacy Blue, show up asking for his help. Miners in South Pass City are being murdered and the town Marshall refuses to investigate claiming it’s wolves. But is it?
Paynter is a well-formed character with depth. However, this protagonist is far from perfect, especially in his own eyes. Readers slowly gain knowledge of his childhood, his time before and during the war, as well as what has happened since and how those events have shaped his perceptions and actions. He is a tortured but capable main character. A wide variety of diverse supporting characters makes this feel authentic. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Esther Morris was an actual person that lived in the Wyoming Territory during this period.
The story starts out strong and has a riveting plot that keeps readers engaged. The author brought a strong sense of time and place to the events in the book. I could easily visualize the town, the people, and the landscape. The action somehow managed to seem plausible for the times even though it was definitely extreme, and Paynter faced overwhelming odds. Nix is a superb storyteller who kept me turning the pages with gripping scenes and a fantastic plot. However, Paynter’s relationships with his friends and those in need were one of the most compelling aspects of this tale. This action-packed novel features friendship, justice, comradery, child abuse, murder, righting wrongs, grift, bribery, corruption, and coercion.
Overall, this book was an action-filled crime thriller in a historical western setting. I highly recommend this novel to those looking for a western with exceptional characters, intense fight scenes, a mystery to be solved, and an absorbing plot. While the books are best read in order to get the full picture, this one works as a standalone novel.
SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and David Nix provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for May 24, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------- Review to Come in May....more
Anna Harrington provides readers with a historical fiction tale that includes romance, danger, and suspense in A Relentless Rake, the fourth book in tAnna Harrington provides readers with a historical fiction tale that includes romance, danger, and suspense in A Relentless Rake, the fourth book in the Lords of the Armory series. Set in London, England in 1817, this novel features Alexander (Alec) Sinclair, Earl of St James, and Olivia Everett, a schoolmistress. Alec and Captain Nate Reed arrive at the Armory for a pre-dawn meeting with Clayton Elliot, the undersecretary for the Home Office. They’re tasked with finding the men who attempted to assassinate the prime minister. A lone clue points to the name Everett. Olivia manages a school for girls and her brother Henry teaches mathematics there along with taking commissions to review architect’s building plans. Is Henry or Olivia working with the revolutionary opposition group?
Known for his gambling, women, and drink, Alec lives his life honestly, and in the last few years, respectably, despite what the gossips say. He’s also intelligent, witty, and somewhat quick to judge others that don’t meet his expectations. Olivia is a proper schoolmistress. She’s brilliant, beautiful, challenging, fearless, and corrects her brother’s equations when he makes errors. Her reputation must be impeccable, or the school will lose its patrons.
This book has a solid plot, with great character depth, extraordinary characters, and a fascinating mystery. The author captured the characters and cultural lifestyles of the times and brought them to life. This beautifully executed story had characters that felt emotionally rich. With some unpredictable moments in the story, it gradually builds momentum until its action-filled conclusion. While the main mystery is solved in this book, there are still several threads that could be used in future books in the series. Along with a couple of steamy scenes, the author weaves in some deep themes related to family, forgiveness, selflessness, selfishness, kindness to those in need, social classes, trust, pride, shame, romance, fear, child abuse, political unrest, and much more.
Overall, this was a moving and memorable novel with some pivotal stressful and emotional moments. I am looking forward to reading more from this author. The Author’s Note provides some interesting tidbits about the historical events occurring during this time.
SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Anna Harrington provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March 29, 2022....more
Enola Holmes and the Elegant Escapade by Nancy Springer brings together Sherlock Holmes and his much younger sister Enola in a teen / young adult Enola Holmes and the Elegant Escapade by Nancy Springer brings together Sherlock Holmes and his much younger sister Enola in a teen / young adult historical mystery set in and around London in late 1889. The author blends suspense, a bold protagonist, and humor in this latest case for Enola. There are several previous books in this series, but this one worked well as a standalone. Unlike Sherlock, she isn’t fully practicing as a finder of missing persons and things. She’s taking classes at the London Women’s Academy. All of this is very unusual for a young woman in Victorian England.
However, when she visits her friend’s home she is told that no one is allowed inside and that neither her friend, Lady Cecily Alistair, nor her mother, Lady Theodora, is entertaining callers. Aware that something is not right; Enola helps Lady Cecily escape and takes her to a secret office in a boarding house she owns. However, Sherlock Holmes hired by Lady Theodora shows up looking for Lady Cecily and she has disappeared without Enola having a clue as to where she has gone. Additionally, Lady Cecily suffers from dual personalities; one is strong and independent while the other is meek and docile.
Enola is a likeable character; she’s is witty, thoughtful, outgoing, smart, independent, spirited, and a master of disguises. She also stands by her friends and won’t let anything stop her from helping them. How she and Sherlock think and analyze situations is fun to see unfold. The chemistry between them creates an entertaining dynamic.
The book has a solid plot, and the character development was great to watch. The story was thought provoking as I thought about the treatment of women and the lack of rights they possessed during the era. The historical references on this and other topics added a significant layer of interest to the plot. The conflict moves the story forward and through unexpected twists. The internal dialogues pulled me into the inner world of the characters.
The author does a good job of world-building. I was able to easily visualize the settings, the people, the clothing, and the homes. The atmosphere felt right for the times resulting in a strong sense of time and place. She effortlessly weaved themes of family, friendship, lifestyle, loneliness, treatment and expectations of women, abuse, and money into the plot.
Overall, this book was an engaging, captivating, and enjoyable historical mystery that moved at a quick pace. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers that enjoy young adult historical mysteries will likely enjoy this series.
St. Martin’s Press – Wednesday Books and Nancy Springer provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for September 06, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
Set in Harlem in the late 1920’s, Harlem Sunset by Nekesa Afia brings to life the vibrant nightlife, jazz music, dancing, and cultural awareness oSet in Harlem in the late 1920’s, Harlem Sunset by Nekesa Afia brings to life the vibrant nightlife, jazz music, dancing, and cultural awareness of the times. It’s not just a historical mystery, but also the journey of protagonist Louise Lloyd as she comes to terms with who and what she is.
Louise is the new manager of a club owned by her friend Rafael Moreno, the brother of Louise’s girlfriend, Rosa Maria. As they are set to celebrate Louise’s birthday, Nora Davies joins them. Nora and Louise were two of the girls kidnapped a decade ago. Louise, Rafael, Rosa Maria, Nora, and Eugene (Rafael’s boyfriend) spend the night drinking and talking, but eventually fall asleep. When they awaken, Nora is dead, and Rosa Maria is covered in blood. Did Rosa Maria kill Nora or did someone frame her?
The author does a great job on characterization, providing not just a physical description, but gradually showing readers their shortcomings and strengths. Louise is a likeable but flawed character. She has a need to know the truth, is nonjudgmental, tends to joke in uncomfortable situations, tends to ignore things she shouldn’t, and suffers from PTSD from her earlier events including her kidnapping. She also was the main caretaker of her three younger sisters as they grew up. Louise is a dynamic character who changes and grows as the story progresses. The supporting characters had a variety of depths appropriate to their roles.
This story captivated me from the very beginning. The author brought the characters and the cultural lifestyles of the times and place to life. The plot is multi-faceted, and the conflicts move the story forward with twists and turns that gradually builds momentum.
The author does a great job of world-building. I was able to easily visualize the settings, the people, the clothing, and the homes. The atmosphere felt right for the times resulting in a strong sense of time and place. She effortlessly weaved themes of family, friendship, lifestyle, loneliness, the treatment and expectations of women, domestic abuse, grief, and murder into the plot. My only quibble is that the story slowed down too much in a couple of places.
Overall, this book was an engaging, captivating, suspenseful, and enjoyable historical mystery and character journey. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. While this novel is the second in the series, it worked well as a stand-alone. However, reading the books in order would enhance the reading experience. Readers that enjoy character-driven historical mysteries will likely enjoy this series.
Berkley Publishing Group and Nekesa Afia provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for June 28, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------------- My review will be posted during the week prior to publication (per publisher's guidelines)....more
Isabel Canas’ debut novel is a supernatural suspense story that can also be classified as horror. Largely set in a remote house in Mexico after the MeIsabel Canas’ debut novel is a supernatural suspense story that can also be classified as horror. Largely set in a remote house in Mexico after the Mexican War of Independence from Spain, the author packs it with atmosphere, history, life, and memorable characters. Most of the book is set in 1823 with a few flashbacks.
The execution of Beatriz’s father and the loss of their home force Beatriz and her mother to live with relatives that treat them badly. When Don Rodolfo Eligio Solorzano proposes, Beatriz is willing to ignore the rumors about his first wife in order to have her own home again. However, the house is not the haven she expected. A poorly maintained house lacking furnishings and a housekeeper and sister-in-law that seem to hate her on site are only the beginning. Visions, voices, and red eyes looking at add to her nightmare. Something is wrong and she needs help. Turning to the witch turned priest Padre Andres, she hopes to find out what is wrong and fix it. Will she survive?
Beatriz is generally a strong character intent on survival and a new life. The horrors she faces will test her and her resilience. Rodolfo appears to be solid, reliable, and confident. However, rumors still follow him. Padre Andres has two ways of life battling for supremacy within him. The secondary characters have varying degrees of depth that is applicable for their roles in this story line.
The writing is fluid, flows well, and is very descriptive. A twisty and absorbing plot kept the pages turning. Building the tension and terror, the author expertly brings the young bride’s fears to life. Weaving love, survival, family, racism, socioeconomics, revenge, secrets, colonialism, religion, and folk beliefs into the story kept this reader on tenterhooks.
Overall, this was a moving, engrossing, compelling, and memorable novel with some pivotal stressful and emotional times. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Berkley Publishing Group and Isabel Canas provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for May 3, 2022.
------------------------------------ Review to be posted approximately April 26, 2022, per publisher guidelines....more
The Unveiling of Polly Forrest by Charlotte Whitney is an engaging historical mystery set in rural Michigan in 1934. The story is told from three The Unveiling of Polly Forrest by Charlotte Whitney is an engaging historical mystery set in rural Michigan in 1934. The story is told from three points of view: Polly Forrest, her sister, Sarah Wolcott Johnson, and her brother-in-law, Reverend Wesley Johnson. When Polly’s new husband Sam is killed in a farm accident, Polly and her nearby family members become suspects in his death. Was it an accident or murder? If it was murder, who committed the crime?
The Great Depression was a tough time economically for most. In addition to the stock market crash and bank failures, farmers faced drought and over-production which led to reduced prices. The sisters’ families faced true hardship from working hard on their farms to having very little to eat to outgrowing clothes and having no money to buy replacements. Additionally, as a minister Wesley had to find ways to repair roof leaks at the church as well as help his congregation as massive job losses and dropping meat and dairy prices affected everyone. It was a time when a telephone, indoor plumbing, and electricity were luxuries in this small community near Marshall, Michigan. However, there were other dangers including a variety of crimes and rumors.
Polly, Sarah, and Wesley are all very flawed characters and weren’t very likeable at times. Polly essentially married so she wouldn’t have to move with her mother to take care of her grandmother. She thought Sam was wealthy and had no idea what her married life would be like. She hates the isolation and is self-centered. However, she shows tremendous character depth and growth over the course of the story. Sarah is somewhat self-righteous, and gets easily frustrated over Polly’s immaturity. Meanwhile Wesley is flawed, but mainly likeable and tries to help everyone.
Short chapters alternate between the three perspectives and their reflections on the events that occur. While this shows how each person perceived events and people, it also seemed to interrupt the flow for me. There’s a strong sense of time that easily transports readers to 1934. Ms. Whitney did a great job of painting a picture of the lives of the sisters, their families, and the surrounding community. She obviously did a lot of research to ensure historical accuracy. Themes include community, family relationships, friendship, death, forgiveness, secrecy, deception, lies, people loving and supporting one another despite their failings, and much more.
Overall, the story is moving and entertaining. Many readers of historical fiction and family dramas will likely enjoy it. This is the second book I have read by this author and I’m looking forward to reading what she writes next.
Lake William Press – Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Members’ Titles and Charlotte Whitney provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March, 2022. ------------------------- My 3.5 star (rounded to 4 stars) review will be posted in a day or two....more
Kelley Armstrong combines a murder mystery and time travel in a historical setting in this first book in a new series. It’s May 20, 2019 and VancouverKelley Armstrong combines a murder mystery and time travel in a historical setting in this first book in a new series. It’s May 20, 2019 and Vancouver homicide detective Mallory Atkinson is in Edinburgh, Scotland to be with her dying grandmother. While jogging, she hears and sees a woman being attacked and goes into an alley where she is also attacked. It’s May 20, 1869 and housemaid Catriona Mitchell is discovered in a lane where she has been left for dead. It’s the exact spot where Mallory was attacked 150 years later. Mallory wakes up in Catriona’s body in 1869 and quickly has to adjust to being a housemaid to an undertaker in Victorian Scotland. The undertaker, Dr. Gray also assists Detective McCreadie. They are investigating the strangulation of a man, similar to Mallory’s attack. She hopes that catching the murderer will lead her back to modern times.
Mallory is a character with plenty of depth. She’s hardworking, kind, relatable, and makes for a strong female protagonist that readers can cheer on. The supporting cast of characters are well-developed and provide insight into individuals in various roles in a Victorian household as well as those they interact with.
Kelley Armstrong has a fluid writing style that quickly brings readers into the well-paced story. They also get insight into the state of police forensics during this early era and a few insights into chemistry, diversity, and how servants are treated as well. Other themes include family, relationships, sanitary (and other) conditions, and much more. There is a hint at a couple of potential romances, but nothing more. The world-building was great and felt accurate for the times. The ending has plenty of action and wraps up many threads, but leaves a few open to be explored in future books in the series.
Overall, this is well-written, engaging, and entertaining with complex characters in a historical setting. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Kelley Armstrong provided a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for May 31, 2022.
Alma Katsu’s novel, THE FERVOR, is dark, intense, and disturbing, but contains important themes that are just as applicable today as they were in Alma Katsu’s novel, THE FERVOR, is dark, intense, and disturbing, but contains important themes that are just as applicable today as they were in 1944. While this is fiction, internment camps during World War II and many instances of violence against those of Asian (and other) ancestry in America are a harsh reality. That is one of the reasons this is such a difficult review to write and do justice to the book. The story can be categorized in many ways. It is historical fiction, a medical suspense, and a historical horror with a bit of folklore and supernatural suspense.
The story follows four main characters living in different states and switches points of view between them. Archie Mitchell is a minister in Bly, Oregon, Meiko Briggs and her daughter, Aiko, have been taken to an internment camp, Camp Minidora in Idaho, and Fran Gurstwold is a reporter in Ogallala, Nebraska. Archie wants to do the right thing, but he is somewhat weak and easily led by others. Meiko was born in Japan and brought up traditionally, but fell in love and married an American who is currently a pilot in the war. Aiko is intelligent, sees monsters and spirits, and was born in the United States. Fran is looking for a big story that will get her out of the women’s section of the newspaper. When a mysterious disease spreads among those interned as well those not in camps, the paranoia and the suspense rise. Strange doctors arrive at the camps and there are news blackouts. What unfolds is a mix of investigation, atrocities, folklore, threats, and violence.
This well-written novel is thought-provoking. Katsu does a great job of intertwining history, mythology, and horror into a bleak, shocking, moving, and original story. It isn’t sententious but rather pulls readers in with compelling characters, different points of view, and individual motivations. My biggest quibble is that the story was somewhat slow in the beginning, but as it unfolds, the suspense built as did my frustration and anger that such a thing as internment camps could happen in the United States. Most of those sent to the camps were born in the US and were citizens, but they were considered a potential threat by the government without cause. While I have read about this before, it certainly was not taught in any of my history classes in school. Themes include racism, xenophobia, suppression of the press, medical experiments, honor, violence against those who are different than oneself, and much more.
Overall, this was suspenseful, thought-provoking, and intriguing with fascinating characters and a situation that made me angry at the atrocities that still occur today. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, G.P. Putnam's Sons and Alma Katsu provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for April 26, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------ My review will be posted 3-4 days after it is published in Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
The Texas Job by Wortham gives readers a view of East Texas in 1931 when a huge oil field has been found and towns are exploding with people, oil The Texas Job by Wortham gives readers a view of East Texas in 1931 when a huge oil field has been found and towns are exploding with people, oil wells, and the good and bad that came with it. Texas Ranger Tom Bell is tracking a fugitive murderer. He is examining a dead body before going into town when someone shoots at him. That is the start of an exciting time in this area of Texas. From a sheriff of the boomtown PineTop to the roughnecks working for the oil companies, no one offers him help. In fact, he obviously ruffles some feathers, and multiple attempts on his life occur. As he tries to find the murderer, Tom uncovers more crimes are happening in and around the town. Will he live to solve the cases?
Tom is a young Ranger in this novel and his sense of duty and desire for justice comes through in his character which has more depth than I expected. Interspersed in the narrative are insights into his young history of serving in World War I and dealing with the loss of his wife. This delivered realism and empathy that made him more relatable. Several of the supporting characters had distinct personalities that made the story even more interesting.
The author did extensive research on this period of Texas history during the Great Depression and the oil boom, but also in Oklahoma when oil was discovered under land owned by the Osage Nation, and it shows. While this is not a traditional 1800’s western, it does have similarities with a lone lawman going up against criminals in a good versus evil story and set in a historical period. The writing is descriptive without slowing down the vivid and action-filled plot. This feature created atmosphere that elevated the story line. Readers will rapidly turn the pages and learn about daily life and conditions in boomtowns during the beginning of oil drilling in that part of Texas. Themes include murder, attempted murder, corruption, racism, power, and more.
The action starts out strong, moves at a fast pace, and the suspense continues to build throughout. The author brought a strong sense of place and time to the events in the book. The action somehow managed to seem plausible for the times even though it was definitely extreme. I could easily visualize the towns, the people, the unsanitary conditions in the temporary camps and tent cities, the landscape, and the inability of infrastructure to keep up with the booming population. One thing that stood out for me was the concerns over water and air pollution that showed up even in 1931.
Overall, this book was an engaging and action-filled crime thriller in a historical setting that kept me turning the pages. This is the first book that I have read by this author but it won’t be the last. I highly recommend this novel to those that like his crime thrillers.
Poisoned Pen Press and Reavis Z. Wortham provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for February 15, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------- My 4 star review of this historical mystery will be posted 3-4 days after it appears in Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
In A Thousand Steps by T. Jefferson Parker, the author blends historical fiction, a thriller, and a coming of age story in a gripping tale set in In A Thousand Steps by T. Jefferson Parker, the author blends historical fiction, a thriller, and a coming of age story in a gripping tale set in 1968 in Laguna Beach, California. The protagonist, Matt Anthony is 16 and lives with his mom, Julie, and his sister, Jasmine (Jazz). His father occasionally writes or calls, but Matt hasn’t seen him in six years. His mother is hooked on drugs. Matt has a paper route, is always hungry, and seems to be the only responsible one in the house. When 18-year-old Jazz doesn’t come home the police think she’s just run away from home. Matt doesn’t believe that and seems to be the only one looking for her. At the same time, he wants to ask Laurel out on a date and is looking forward to his brother Kyle returning home from the war.
Matt is an appealing, determined, and likeable character. (One of the few in the novel.) He takes on responsibilities that the adults in his life should have. Instead, they’re irresponsible and undependable. Despite this, the characters felt authentic.
This novel is extremely well-written and is often heart-wrenching and distressing. The author does a great job of depicting the times and place. The prevalence of drugs as well as the attitudes of the times toward hippies, the police, and the Vietnam War are vividly portrayed. I was stunned by some of the comments Matt’s father made to him on the phone. I was also angry at his mother. No child should be treated like that.
Overall, I am glad that I read this novel, but it wasn’t always an easy read.
Macmillan-Tor/Forge – Forge Books and T. Jefferson Parker provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 11, 2022. ...more
I accidentally deleted my review when cleaning up duplicates. I added it back on Feb 13, 2024.
The Edge of Lost by Kristina McMorris is a historicaI accidentally deleted my review when cleaning up duplicates. I added it back on Feb 13, 2024.
The Edge of Lost by Kristina McMorris is a historical fiction novel that starts out in October 1937 on Alcatraz as a search for a prison guard’s missing daughter is underway. Then it jumps back in time to 1919 to Dublin, Ireland and eleven year old orphan Shanley “Shan” Keagan. Shan lives with an abusive uncle and makes a living doing a vaudeville act in pubs. Shan and Uncle Will decide to come to America, but tragedy strikes.
Shan was a character that you could root for as he fights for survival. However, the secondary characters are not nearly as well developed.
The story line kept me interested, despite the somewhat unrealistic ending and a surprise along the way. It is heartbreaking at times and uplifting at other times. The author gave a strong sense of place and time as well as conditions and hardships faced by many immigrants. The reading experience was immersive. 3.5 stars rounded down to 3 stars. I am in the minority on this rating. There are many readers who loved this novel, including readers whose opinion I respect.
Overall, this book had a great concept, but the pace was too slow and the secondary character depth didn’t work well for me. Despite this, I liked it, but it didn’t escalate to the next level for me.
I received a digital copy of this book in a Goodreads Discussion Group Giveaway. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way....more
In City of Time and Magic, Paula Brackston brings a well-written and entertaining mix of historical fiction, fantasy, time travel, romance, and suIn City of Time and Magic, Paula Brackston brings a well-written and entertaining mix of historical fiction, fantasy, time travel, romance, and suspense. It is the fourth book in the Found Things series and readers will benefit from reading the series in order as there are references to events in previous books. The novel is set in and around Marlborough, a market town in the English county of Wiltshire in contemporary times and 1878 London.
Our protagonist, Xanthe, and her mother Flora live in Marlborough above their antique store, The Little Shop of Found Things. Xanthe has found that she can time travel to address injustices, an ability known to a few as Spinning. Objects sing and whisper to her to let her know when and where she is needed. At the end of book three, the main mission was accomplished, but there was a major cliffhanger. This book starts two weeks later with Xanthe feeling betrayed and worried about a friend. When three objects sing to her, she isn’t sure which one will take her on the mission she desires.
Xanthe has gained some confidence in herself and her ability to understand what the found objects need her to do. However, she is still learning what it means to be a Spinner able to travel to other times and places. She shows tremendous growth during the course of this fourth novel. The secondary characters provide the emotional support that Xanthe needs at this stage of her understanding of Spinning. They also bring realism to life through their quirkiness, hobbies and personalities. The antagonists’ motivations are as believable for 1878 as they are today.
Paula Brackston does a great job in giving the reader a sense of both time and place, and her descriptions help the reader to travel with Xanthe. The story has history, mystery, suspense, danger, deceit, uncertainty, secrets, villains, hope, friendship, sorrow, grief, love, duty to family, and much more. The author brings history to life with an entertaining story that is suspenseful, dramatic, and emotional. Be prepared for the imagery to engage your visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory senses.
Overall, it was compulsively readable, full of some surprising twists, and provides a believable historical atmosphere full of danger. This engaging combination fully delivered on the promise of its premise and opening scenes. The subplots tied together well, the main characters were strong, and the ending was explosive. Readers that enjoy time travel mixed with suspense and history will likely enjoy this novel.
St. Martin’s Press and Paula Brackston provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for November 16, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
Crooked in His Ways by S.M. Goodwin brings plenty of atmosphere to the second book in the Lightner and Law historical mystery / police procedural Crooked in His Ways by S.M. Goodwin brings plenty of atmosphere to the second book in the Lightner and Law historical mystery / police procedural series. The main characters are Detective Inspector Jasper Lightner, who is the second son of a duke, and Hieronymus (Hy) Law, a New York detective.
Except for the prologue, this novel takes place in New York City in 1857. New York is very unsettled as Jasper continues his year-long assignment to train police detectives in modern (for the times) criminal investigative techniques. Instead, there is conflict everywhere and many that do not want him there. When Albert Beauchamp appears in multiple pieces more than a year after his disappearance, Jasper and Hy get the case.
Jasper are Hy are likeable but flawed protagonists. They come from very different backgrounds, but both have faced challenges. Whether it is intelligence, wit, or brawn, their skills meshed well and the characters came alive for me. Their friendship grew significantly in this book and we got to see some additional depth in both their working relationship and their interactions with secondary characters. Jasper’s household staff adds another dimension to the relationships. Humor is also weaved into the story making it even more delightful to read. It all builds up to a fantastic ending.
The author does a great job of showing a dark and gritty New York City in turmoil. The details appear to be well-researched. What follows is a complex plot with a lot of characters. The plot is suspenseful, fresh, and entertaining. The writing style and story line pulled me in quickly, but the characters and situations that developed kept me reading. As they dig into Albert’s background, they discover that many people had reasons to kill him. But who did it? Where will the trail lead? Is it even possible to discover the killer with only primitive forensic capabilities? Themes include murder, relationships and arranged marriages, infidelity, poverty, gangs, racism, drugs, corruption, assaults, false imprisonment, PTSD and much more.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was suspenseful, engaging, and atmospheric. It is not your typical historical mystery. Pay close attention to the details, as they matter. Which of the secondary characters will show up in future books in the series? This is the second book that I have read by this author. I can’t wait to find out what is next for Jasper and Hy. I recommend this to those that like dark and gritty historical mysteries and historical police procedurals.
Crooked Lane Books and S. M. Goodwin provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently expected to be September 7, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
Hell’s Jaw Pass by Max O’Hara is suspenseful and full of action. It weaves aspects of action and adventure with a crime thriller inside a western Hell’s Jaw Pass by Max O’Hara is suspenseful and full of action. It weaves aspects of action and adventure with a crime thriller inside a western and is the second book in the Wolf Stockburn, Railroad Detective series. This novel is set in Wyoming in the 1800’s.
Wolf Stockburn is a Wells Fargo detective who generally fights crime that happens on the Northern Pacific Railroad, but he isn’t just any detective. He’s known as the Grey Wolf and is respected and feared, depending on which side of the law one is on. He is extraordinary in that he started as a Pony Express rider in Native American territory and learned how to shoot from a gunfighter. He also seems to have a sixth sense when trouble is near. In this case a crew building a railroad spur is murdered with no survivors. So Wolf is sent to investigate and find the killers.
Wolf is a well-formed character and doesn’t tolerate criminals; especially those that kill in cold blood. Just his name can send some men running and others reaching for their guns. His sense of humor is not always appreciated by others, but it’s there for the reader to see and enjoy. His resolve, focus, and deadly aim are clearly showcased in this novel.
The action starts out strong. Then suspense is built during the initial investigation part of the story line, but it was so full of energy that it kept me turning to pages to find out what was going to happen next. I was fully invested in Wolf’s process of examining the crime scene and his scrutiny of the various people involved. Why would someone want to stop the spur and prevent the hauling of gold from the Hell’s Jaw Pass mine?
The author brought a strong sense of time and place to the events in the book. I could easily visualize the train, the town, the people, and the landscape. The action somehow managed to seem plausible for the times even though it was definitely extreme. Bullets fly fast and furious. But with a town full of corruption, intimidation, killers, bullies, and miners, will Wolf manage to stay alive without backup? Themes include train robberies, ranch wars, murder, trust, self-recrimination, corruption, the treatment of women, and much more.
Overall, this book was an action-filled crime thriller in a western setting with some family drama added that didn’t detract from the story, but added depth. I highly recommend this novel to those that like westerns or historical fiction crime thrillers.
Kensington Books – Pinnacle and Max O’Hara provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for July 27, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
Enola Holmes and the Black Barouche by Nancy Springer brings together Sherlock Holmes and his much younger sister Enola in a teen / young adult hiEnola Holmes and the Black Barouche by Nancy Springer brings together Sherlock Holmes and his much younger sister Enola in a teen / young adult historical mystery set in London and Surrey in 1889. There are several previous books in this series, but this one worked well as a standalone. Mystery, suspense, and humor are blended together in an appealing new case for Enola.
At fifteen, Enola is living on her own at the Professional Women’s Club and has a history of sleuthing. While she is visiting Sherlock a young woman, Miss Letitia Glover, shows up desperate to learn more about the fate of her twin sister, Felicity. Felicity’s husband of two years sent a note that she had died and needed to be cremated. Letitia believes she would know it if her sister was dead. Enola decides to go undercover to determine what happened to Felicity.
Enola is a likeable character; she’s is witty, thoughtful, outgoing, and a master of disguises. But sometimes she is short of facts and that can get her into hot water. How she and Sherlock think and analyze situations is fun to see unfold. Besides Sherlock, Dr. Watson and the Viscount Tewksbury put in appearances as well.
The author does a good job of world-building. I was able to easily visualize the settings, the people, the clothing, and the homes. The atmosphere felt right for the times resulting in a strong sense of time and place. Unraveling the mystery was enjoyable. While the mystery is not overly complicated, it is solid and entertaining. Additionally, amidst the tension and suspense, there are bits of humor that lighten the tone of the story. The ending wrapped things up nicely. While the prologue and epilogue are from Sherlock’s point of view, everything in between is from that of Enola. For those that haven’t read the previous books, the prologue does a great job of bringing readers up to speed.
Overall, this book was an engaging and enjoyable historical mystery that moved at a quick pace. Themes include treatment of women in the late 1800’s, clothing, disguises, friendship, injustices, sibling relationships, and much more. There are some disturbing descriptions of the conditions in some institutions of the times.
I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series. Readers that enjoy young adult historical mysteries will likely enjoy this series. There is a movie out that is based on an earlier book.
St. Martin’s Press – Wednesday Books and Nancy Springer provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for August 31, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen brings plenty of mystery, intrigue, and atmosphere to a tale that is part historical mysteryThe Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen brings plenty of mystery, intrigue, and atmosphere to a tale that is part historical mystery, part police investigation, and part romance. It’s the first book in the Proper Romance Victorian series. Set in and around London in 1885, the main characters are Amelie Hampton, Harold Radcliffe, and Detective Michael Baker. When a dead body of a young woman is found in the Thames River, these three meet and the sparks fly in more than one way.
Amelie is an independent but somewhat lonely woman working for her aunt at The Marriage Gazette. She answers lonely heart letters, writes the occasional essay, and does some matchmaking through the personal ads. Her character comes through strongly as naïve, hard-working, intelligent, impatient, and outspoken, but she has successfully matched more couples than the rest of the staff combined. She does show some growth during the course of the book, but also makes some ill-advised choices along the way. Harold is charming and good looking, but he’s somewhat harder to get to know. Michael is hard-working and calm. A cast of secondary characters provides support, conflict, and interest.
The author did a great job of transporting me to a different time and place. Quotes from different publications that were at the beginning of each chapter provided additional insight into the times and how women were perceived and treated. While this is not a time I would want to live in, it was fun to visit and spend time with Amelie and her friends, family, and acquaintances. While the plot was clever, suspenseful, and perfectly paced, it was the characters and situations that developed that kept me reading. However, I did wish that a red herring or two were thrown in the mix so that the villain wasn’t known so early in the book. Danger, suspense, and some twists crop up before you get to the heartwarming and satisfying ending.
I was immediately drawn into the characters’ lives and enjoyed the unraveling of the mystery and the development of the romance. Themes include death, relationships, poverty, treatment of orphans, corruption, assaults, romance, family, institutionalization of those with certain disabilities, and much more.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was suspenseful, engaging, and atmospheric. In both of the books I have read by this author, I had a connection with the writing style that I found relatable, vivid, and irresistible. I can’t wait to find out which of the secondary characters will show up in future books in the series. I recommend this to those that like historical mysteries with some romance.
Shadow Mountain Publishing and Nancy Campbell Allen provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently expected to be September 7, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
Wolf Stockburn, Railroad Detective by Max O’Hara is shocking, unnerving, and suspenseful. It weaves aspects of suspense action and crime action thWolf Stockburn, Railroad Detective by Max O’Hara is shocking, unnerving, and suspenseful. It weaves aspects of suspense action and crime action thrillers inside a western and is the first book in a new series. The novel is set in the Dakota Territory prior to North Dakota’s statehood.
Wolf Stockburn is a detective for the Northern Pacific Railroad, but he isn’t just any detective. He’s known as the Grey Wolf and is respected and feared, depending on which side of the law one is on. He is extraordinary in that he started as a Pony Express rider in Native American territory and learned how to shoot from a gunfighter. He also seems to have a sixth sense when trouble is near. In this case, a large group of bandits are attacking the Northern Pacific Railway. They use dynamite to damage the tracks and open the express cars carrying high-value freight, and then rob and then kill the passengers and crew. Wolf has been sent to find who the bandits are and where they are hiding out.
There is a lot of character development in this book for Wolf as well as a couple of the secondary characters. I got a sense that he doesn’t take much downtime and doesn’t think about the future very much. How will he change over the course of the series?
The action starts out strong. Then suspense is built during a slower part of the story line, but it was so full of energy that it kept me turning to pages to find out what was going to happen next. I was fully invested in Wolf’s investigation.
The author brought a strong sense of place to the events in the book. I could easily visualize the towns, the people, and the landscape. The action somehow managed to seem plausible for the times even though it was definitely extreme. Additionally, many questions came to my mind. What pushes people to do the things they do? Why murder so many people when they have already given you their valuables? What are people willing to do to get revenge for past actions or inactions?
Overall, this book was an action-filled crime thriller in a western setting with some work and family drama that doesn’t detract from the story, but adds depth. This is the first book that I have read by Max O’Hara but it won’t be the last. I highly recommend this novel to those that like western crime thrillers.
Kensington Books – Pinnacle and Max O’Hara provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March 30, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
The Deadly Mystery of the Missing Diamonds by T. E. Kinsey brings to life 1925 London. The country is recovering from the war and escapism from thThe Deadly Mystery of the Missing Diamonds by T. E. Kinsey brings to life 1925 London. The country is recovering from the war and escapism from the devastation comes with jazz music, dancing, and excellent company. This is the first book in the Dizzy Heights Mystery series and is a spin-off series from the Lady Hardcastle Mystery series.
Dizzy Heights is a jazz band featuring Ivor ‘Dizzy’ Maloney (drummer) and Bartholomew ‘Barty’ Dunn (double bass) along with the brass section, banjo player, and speaking trumpet. It is believed that a deserter stole a fortune in diamonds while in France during the war. He is now believed to be a member of the Aristippus Club where the band plays. When Superintendent Sunderland of Scotland Yard asks for their help, Dizzy and Barty agree. They also enlist the help of Dizzy’s wife Ellie and the other band members. Will it really be that easy for amateurs to find the deserter and prevent more crimes? Who is the cunning criminal?
The main characters of Dizzy, Barty, and Ellie were likeable and unusual. Their repartee elevated the level of the book and gave this reader a fun laugh-out-loud moments, but there were a few too many puns. This supporting cast had varying degrees of depth, but provided balance and contrast to the main characters. Additionally, protagonists from this author’s other series, Lady Hardcastle and Flo Armstrong, make a short cameo appearance.
The author brings a strong sense of time and place and easily transported this reader to post-war London. Adding to that, the cultural aspects made reading this book an immersive experience and felt authentic. I easily pictured the club, the band, and saw the Charleston being danced. Friendship is at the heart of this novel and Kinsey brings it to life. Besides the diamond theft, other themes included murder, desertion, conscientious objection, how women were treated and what was starting to change. My one quibble is that the pace was a little slow in places.
Overall, this was a light, fun, and entertaining historical cozy mystery. Jazz band members as amateur sleuths was a unique and enjoyable approach. Reading this novel made me want to read the Lady Hardcastle mystery series as well as the next novel featuring the Dizzy Heights. The author’s note has several interesting tidbits of information that are worth reading. Those that like historical cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this spin-off series.
This is my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ...more
The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is translated by William Weaver. It is set in Italy in 1327. Brother William of Baskerville is sent to investiThe Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is translated by William Weaver. It is set in Italy in 1327. Brother William of Baskerville is sent to investigate the suspicions of heresy by the Benedictines in a wealthy abbey. However, when arriving at the abbey, mysterious deaths force him to turn detective.
While the story line was interesting and the descriptions of the abbey were vivid, the verbose, and flowery writing style overshadowed everything for me. There is a lot of philosophy and some wry humor, but it did not overcome the writing style for me.
I enjoy historical mysteries, but this one didn’t work for me. However, many readers have loved this book and it has won some literary awards.
I purchased a digital copy of this novel. This is my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way....more
An Extravagant Death by Charles Finch is a historical mystery set in 1878 and 1879 and is set in London, New York, and Rhode Island. Queen VictoriAn Extravagant Death by Charles Finch is a historical mystery set in 1878 and 1879 and is set in London, New York, and Rhode Island. Queen Victoria is on the throne and Benjamin Disraeli is the Prime Minister. Despite this novel being the fourteenth book in the series, I had no problem connecting with the characters and the time.
The protagonist, Charles Lenox, is the leading and most distinguished detective in England. He had once been a Member of Parliament, but now has his own detective agency. He has just wrapped up a case that involved corruption within Scotland Yard. When called to the Prime Minister’s office, he is asked to undertake a diplomatic mission for the Queen. After some thought and persuasion, he accepts and arrives in New York. After meeting with both the police and members of society, he heads to Boston, but is stopped in route and asked to go to Newport, Rhode Island. A debutant is dead. Is it suicide, an accident, or murder?
Charles is an engaging character and definitely someone you want to succeed. His flaws only served to endear him to this reader. He also showed growth and some character change during the course of the story. The secondary characters had varying degrees of depth, but it was sufficient for their roles in the story line.
The author does a fantastic job of giving the reader a strong sense of time and place. The cultural elements seemed accurate and made the reading experience an immersive one. However, this is not a thriller. It takes a while to get to the debutant’s death, but I did not mind the slower pace. I was having too much fun enjoying the society of 1878 in London and New York. Themes included political maneuvering, social classes, treatment of others, old money versus new money, differences between England and America, death, grief, and much more.
Overall, this book is entertaining, humorous at times, and a well-done historical mystery. This is the first novel that I have read by this author. I definitely want to read more of this series. If you like historical mysteries, then you may enjoy this one as much as I did.
I received a copy of this book from the St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Charles Finch in a Goodreads Giveaway. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was February 16, 2021....more
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