I have been reviewing books for Library Journal since 2017. This activity has the added bonus of introducing me to some new authors and adding to by TBR (to be read) pile. Here are some of my reviews of those books.
The Next Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine April 2024
The Real Housewives have nothing on the women in Constantine’s latest (the sequel to 2017’s The Last Mrs. Parrish). The story opens with Amber, whose carefully constructed plan results in her replacing Daphne as Jackson Parrish’s wife. Now Amber’s dreading her husband’s return from prison where he is serving time for tax evasion—the result of her informing on him to the authorities. Her discovery of a cache of high-quality diamonds on Jackson’s boat provides her with the funds she needs to escape and start a new life. Jackson’s unexpected early release forces her to pivot and agree to help him lure his ex-wife Daphne back into his life. Daphne, who had thought she’d escaped from the man’s physical and psychological abuse, is pulled back into Jackson’s web by their eldest daughter’s repeated attempts to run back to her father. Amber has no qualms about sacrificing Daphne, since she’s always felt inferior to Jackson’s first wife. When someone from Amber’s past comes back to haunt her, she adds destroying her to the to-do list. Can she trust Jackson to help, or will he double cross her?
Verdict: With scheming worthy of the soapiest television drama, readers will enjoy watching the match of wits and wills in this entertaining beach read.
The Perils of Lady Catherine de Bourgh by Claudia Gray Dec 2023
Juliet Tilney and Jonathan Darcy have successfully brought two murderers to light and their involvement in such affairs has drawn notice, and in some cases, censure. Despite her disapproval of such activities, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Jonathan’s great-aunt, summons them both, insisting that someone is out to kill her. Anyone familiar with this character from Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will be unsurprised that the unpleasant woman has made enemies.
Jonathan and Juliet are eager to conduct another investigation and see each other again. Neither Mr. Darcy nor Mr. Tilney are overjoyed with the danger of a murder investigation or a potential marriage between their children, yet the gentlemen and their offspring arrive at Rosings Park to serve Lady Catherine.
The initial days of the investigation provide little enlightenment; in fact, the young sleuths begin to wonder at the true intent of the incidents that brought them there. Another attempt upon Lady Catherine disabuses them of the notion that the intent is anything less than murder.
Verdict: Gray continues to faithfully recreate the world of Jane Austen’s novels in this delightful third book in her series. As always, the characters and plot are engaging, with the plot culminating in a satisfying denouement. Like Austen, Gray references social issues of the day, deepening the read. I’m eager to find out which of Austen’s characters we’ll meet next.
Evergreen (Japantown Bk 2) by Naomi Hirahara, June 2023, Library Journal
Hirahara’s series about the Ito family’s experiences as detainees at the concentration camp Manzanar continues (after Clark and Division) as the family is finally allowed to return to their home in California.
Aki Ito Nakasone has taken up work as a nurse’s aide at the Japanese Hospital in Los Angeles while she waits for her new husband Art to be discharged from the all-Nisei 100th/442nd Regimental Combat Team. When she examines an elderly man who comes in for treatment of an infection, she notices his body is covered in bruises. Her shock magnifies when she recognizes his son–Babe Watanabe, Art’s best man at their wedding. Soon Aki and her family are embroiled in the mess Babe has made, adding to the tension between the reunited newlyweds. Art’s inability to share his war experiences and his PTSD drive them further apart.
VERDICT Once again, Hirahara illuminates the experiences of Japanese Americans during World War I by embodying them in the lives of the Ito family. The author weaves a compelling tale, which is all the more poignant as it reminds readers of the shameful treatment of Japanese Americans, along with the racial prejudice still at work. A must-read.
The Late Mrs. Willoughby by Claudia Gray, April 2023, Library Journal
In this sequel to The Murder of Mr. Wickham, Jonathan Darcy, and Juliet Tilney cross paths again, this time in the Derbyshire town of Barton. At his parents’ urging, Darcy reluctantly accepts an invitation from John Willoughby, his chief tormentor at school. Two other former schoolmates were also invited; Willoughby wants an audience as he celebrates his inheritance of Allenham, an estate not far from the home shared by his former love Marianne, now married to Colonel Brandon. The Brandons aren’t the only ones uneasy about the arrival of Willoughby and his wife, as the poisoning of Mrs. Willoughby soon starkly demonstrates. Once again, Jonathan and Juliet put their sleuthing skills to work to unmask her killer. Surrounded by potential suspects and confused about the murderer’s target, the duo must keep their wits about them to protect the innocent, including themselves.
VERDICT Gray continues her homage to Jane Austen with this sequel that wonderfully reimagines the lives of Austen’s characters vet stays faithful to the spirit of the classic works. Readers should be aware there are spoilers from the first novel woven into this story. It’s fun to anticipate the other Austen characters the young sleuths might encounter in future novels.
Every Man a King by Walter Mosley
Mosley’s second book in the series (after 2018’s Down the River unto the Sea) finds our hero swimming in deep, shark-infested waters.
Joseph Oliver, former cop turned private investigator, is hired by Roger Ferris during a legal battle with his children over control of their multibillion-dollar company. Complicating matters is Brenda, Joe’s grandmother, and Roger’s girlfriend.
Summoned to Ferris’ mansion, Joe assumed the topic of discussion would be the takeover. Instead, Ferris tells Joe about Alfred Xavier Quiller, a man who has been “detained” by the government. When Joe pushes the older man, Ferris admits that he owes Quiller a debt.
Things heat up even more when Joe’s ex-wife Monica calls, begging him to help her new husband—the same man that convinced Monica to let Joe sit and rot at Riker’s Island instead of paying bail. But Joe loves their daughter Aja, so he dives into this case too.
Before long, he’s neck deep in deadly white supremacists, lethal Russian mobsters and shadow organizations all looking to put him in a body bag.
VERDICT: Mosley demonstrates once again why he is a master of the craft, weaving a searing look at the concepts of race and social justice into a page-turning crime novel. A complex, compelling protagonist and eclectic supporting cast deepen the pleasure of the read. Let’s hope we don’t have to wait five years to meet Joe and his circle again.
Devil You Know by P.J. Tracy
LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan’s third outing (after 2022’s Desolation Canyon) finds her latest case involves the suspicious death of actor Evan Hobbes, a Disney star who, hours before his death, had been targeted with a deep fake video portraying him as a pedophile. Initial speculation of suicide gives way to murder as evidence of foul play surfaces. As Maggie and her partner Al pursue their investigation, they cross paths with heavy hitting Hollywood types interested in the impact of Evan’s death on business as well as those who appear genuinely devastated by the murder, including Evan’s agent Seth and Seth’s sister Essie, one of the last people to see the victim alive. When a double murder in Santa Barbara appears connected to their case, the detectives’ pursuit of leads intensifies, as does their frustration. The murder of their prime suspect leads Maggie to wonder if this time someone will get away with murder. While the first two books in the series add background, this book reads easily as a standalone.
VERDICT: The series protagonist is a wonderfully complex and likeable character, as are the supporting cast. Tracy’s ability to weave multiple plots into a satisfying story makes this a must read for any mystery lover.
Act of Oblivion by Robert Harris
Harris (V2: A Novel of WWII) demonstrates his talent for bringing history to life with a taut tale of faith and vengeance. King Charles I of England was the center of a realm divided on religious ideology. His suspension of parliament set in motion a series of events leading to his execution as a traitor to the nation. Oliver Cromwell was the force behind a new republican England, and after the king’s death, ruthlessly dealt with those still loyal to the crown. In 1660, eleven years after the king’s execution, his son Charles Stuart is restored to the throne and the men responsible for the regicide were now wanted men. Leading the manhunt is Richard Naylor, an agent of the Privy Council—a man who has his own reasons for capturing two of the hunted, men he holds responsible for the deaths of his wife and unborn child. Naylor is a bloodhound, tracking the fugitives to the new American colonies, and the conflict that began in London spills onto fresh soil.
VERDICT: While Harris’ story bogs down in places with dense detail, the raw emotions of the characters and the issues of that drive human dissent make this a worthwhile read.
Like a Sister by Kellye Garrett, March 2022, Library Journal
Two years ago, Lena Scott walked away from her half-sister, unable to deal with Desiree’s wild, drug-fueled lifestyle. Lena had already distanced herself from the highprofile, lavish world that her hip-hop mogul father reveled in, and chose to live with her aunt in the Bronx. When she learns that Desiree has been found dead in a Bronx playground, Lena is convinced her sister was coming to see her. The cops quickly conclude that Desiree died of an overdose, but Lena doesn’t believe that. She looks to connect with her sister’s friends, including Erin, whose photos and posts were plastered all over Desiree’s social feeds. Erin offers herself as guide to the Instagram-ready world Desiree lived in–foreign territory for Lena. As she unravels the events of her sister’s last night, Lena struggles with knowing whom to trust; a mistake could cost her everything.
VERDICT In addition to creating a satisfying, twisty mystery and eloquently depicting the complexity of family relationships, Garrett (“Detective by Day” series) explores racial identity, privilege, and discrimination as an organic part of the novel, with a deft, often funny touch. Here’s hoping to see more of Lena.
The Ninja Betrayed by Tori Eldridge, September 2021, Library Journal
The third book in the Lily Wong series (after 2020’s The Ninja’s Blade) has the female ninja traveling to Hong Kong with her mother Violet. Long-brewing tensions between her mother and grandfather are Lily’s first clue that this isn’t going to be the relaxing vacation she hoped for. As Lily watches Violet’s anxiety grow about her position in the company, her unease increases when she fends off attacks on other members of the company. Lily tries not to let these problems interfere with her blossoming relationship with Daniel Kwok, who has arrived in Hong Kong on business.
The female ninja can’t escape her destiny, however. Between rescuing a teenage girl caught up in explosive protest demonstrations disrupting Hong Kong and squeezing in dates with Daniel, Lily discovers that she’s dealing with dangerous members of a local triad. This time, trouble hits closer to home than ever. Lily will have to figure out who she can trust before someone dear to her pays the ultimate price.
VERDICT: Eldridge’s series just keeps getting better. While a reader can enjoy this book without having read the first two, a series highlight is the evolution of Lily Wong and the complexity and growth of her relationships. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy strong heroines forging a unique path like Deanna Raybourn’s Victoria Speedwell, S.J. Rozan’s Lydia Chin or Gigi Pandian’s Jaya Jones.
Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara, 7/1/2021, Library Journal
The treatment of American citizens of Japanese descent during World War II comes to life in this mystery by Hirahara (“Mas Arai” series). The Ito family are uprooted from their life in California and sent to Manzanar, a concentration camp for Japanese Americans. At Manzanar, Aki, her older sister Rose, and their parents endure privation and suffering. When detainees who are not considered security risks are allowed to leave the camp, Rose is among them. She is relocated to Chicago, but it takes several more months before the rest of the family is allowed to join her. They are greeted, not by Rose, but the news of her death. Everyone is calling it an accident—or worse, suicide. But Aki knows something terrible happened to her sister.
Dogged in her pursuit of answers, Aki questions everyone she could find that knew Rose–roommates, friends, and coworkers. She is shocked and confused by what she hears but pushes onward to discover the truth. In the course of the investigation, Aki confronts dangers, makes friends in unexpected places, falls in love and finally finds the courage to be true to herself.
VERDICT: Hirahara does a masterly job incorporating extensive historical research into an emotionally compelling story. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy high-quality historical fiction, well-drawn characters, and an engrossing plot.
Embassy Wife by Katie Crouch, 6/1/2021 Library Journal
Crouch (Abroad) examines the lives of three families living in Namibia. Amanda Evans left Silicon Valley to join husband Mark in Namibia, as he does historical research. She struggles with the heat, her daughter Meg’s distress over the move, and the intricacies of embassy life in a foreign country. She is quickly befriended by Persephone Wilder, wife of embassy counsel Adam. Persephone enjoys shepherding new arrivals like Amanda. While Amanda is uncomfortable with her obvious privilege as a white woman, Persephone doesn’t appear to care. Which may be the reason for the friction between her and Mila Shilongo, wife of the Namibian minister of transportation. Mila and her husband Josephat share similar backgrounds growing up in extreme poverty in Namibia and now have risen to dizzying heights of wealth and power. As Amanda develops a friendship with Mila, and their daughters do the same, she begins to appreciate her adopted home. But beneath the surface of their everyday lives, secrets and lies bubble away. Just as Amanda discovers shattering truths about her husband, her daughter is embroiled in an international incident, leaving the families reeling.
VERDICT: Crouch does an excellent job of bringing her characters to life, conveying the beauty and challenges of Namibia through their eyes. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy armchair travel, well-drawn characters, twisty plots and complex relationships.
Best American Mystery Stories edited by Otto Penzler, 10/1/20 Library Journal
Once again, mystery maven and “Best American” series editor Otto Penzler brings a collection of 20 of 2019’s best short-format mysteries to tantalize readers. This edition is guest-edited by author C.J. Box, and the stories cover a lot of ground, from “All This Distant Beauty”, Ryan David Jahn’s tale of human trafficking in Mexico; to a woman’s fight for freedom in Afghanistan in Jake Lithua’s “The Most Powerful Weapon”; to Lisa Morton’s old Hollywood mystery “Whatever Happened to Lorna Winters?”; to an Appalachian gang of “Baddest Outlaws” run by little people in Rick McMahan’s story. Standouts include “The Surrogate Initiative,” Brian Cox’s thought-provoking exploration of future uses of artificial intelligence, and Jeffery Deaver’s “Security,” the story of the rise of a divisive politician. Also included is a lengthy list of “Other Distinguished Mystery Stories of 2019” and copious “Contributors’ Notes.”
VERDICT: Whether you enjoy snacking on bite-sized twisty mysteries or are looking for a new author to follow, this anthology delivers.
The Ninja’s Blade by Tori Eldridge, 9/4/20 Library Journal
Female ninja Lily Wong makes her second appearance (after The Ninja Daughter). Lily’s life trajectory was irrevocably altered the night her younger sister was raped and murdered. Feeling like she failed to protect her sister, Lily has dedicated her life to rescuing women and children who are being abused.
Still reeling from the repercussions of her encounter with the assassin Tran, Lily has to deal with the emotional landmines of a visit from her controlling maternal grandparents and a deepening relationship with the man her mother set her up with, real estate mogul Daniel Kwok. Despite her resistance to dating the Perfect Chinese Man, Lily is drawn to Daniel’s intelligence, warmth and humor.
Adding to this pressure are the challenges of her latest case, which turns out to be more complex and dangerous than she thought. Eldridge does a terrific job of turning a spotlight on the horrifying world of the sex trafficking of children—a problem that is more pervasive in our society than people want to admit. Lily’s burning need to stand up for and to protect these vulnerable children should be a rallying cry.
VERDICT: Lily and the secondary characters are rich and complicated and details about martial arts and Chinese culture add depth to the story. While it isn’t necessary to have read the previous book in the series to enjoy this one, the reader won’t understand the depth of Lily’s emotional conflict without that context. This series continues to impress and should find a wide, appreciative audience.
The Body in the Garden by Katherine Schellman, 4/1/20 Library Journal
In Schellman’s delightful debut novel, Lily Adler’s husband succumbs to illness in 1815, a mere two years into their marriage, and she finds her future dreams buried with her beloved. After spending her mourning period in the country, she’s finally convinced to rejoin society and sets up a home in the fashionable Mayfair neighborhood of London. When her friend Lady Serena Walter welcomes Lily to town by begging her to join the party she’s giving that evening, Lily reluctantly agrees.
As she makes her way through the crowded ballroom, she finds town life unchanged—the eager debutantes and their mamas, the puffed-up eligible gentlemen, the free-flowing wine and gossip. Escaping to the terrace for a respite, she takes advantage of the freedom being a widow gives her to wander into the garden. Overhearing a whispered conversation between two gentlemen, Lily moves away to avoid discovery. She hasn’t reached the terrace when a gunshot rings out. Convincing her late husband’s friend Captain Jack Hartley to investigate, she leads him to the clearing where she overheard the conversation and they discover the unfortunate victim.
When the magistrate declares it a case of murder by persons unknown and tells the Bow Street Runners to stop investigating, Lily is livid and vows to find the murderer herself. Confident in her ability to unravel the clues, Lily is unprepared for the repercussions of her investigation. Will she unmask the killer before she pays the ultimate price herself?
VERDICT: Fans of historical mysteries and intelligent, strong women sleuths such as Tasha Alexander’s Lady Emily, Darcie Wilde’s Rosalind Thorne or Andrea Penrose’s Charlotte Sloane will find this new series one to add to their TBR pile.
Saint X by Alexis Schaitkin, 2/1/20 Library Journal
DEBUT Claire Thomas’s sister Alison dies during a Caribbean family vacation. To seven-year-old Claire, college freshman Alison is everything she’s not–beautiful, poised, popular. An omniscient narrator draws us into the story with a surveillance camera-like impassivity. When adult Claire slides into the NYC cab of Clive Richardson, one of the men suspected of killing Alison, she can’t ignore the compulsion to discover the truth behind her sister’s death. Schaitkin carefully inserts pieces of various characters’ lives, gradually completing the jigsaw puzzle of the story for readers. As Claire surrenders to her obsession with Clive, she risks losing everything in pursuit of the answer. While pointt-of-view shifts may be confusing for readers struggling to orient themselves in the story, the richness of the characters makes the attempt worthwhile. Questions of race and privilege deepen the impact of the characters’ struggle, emphasizing the societal norms each individual and every nation must address for equity to become more than a mission statement or campaign slogan.
VERDICT: Readers who enjoy a mystery with emotional depth will find this a compelling and impressive debut.
Thunder Bay by Douglas Skelton, 1/1/20 Library Journal
Secrets. Lies. Family. Reporter Rebecca Connolly jumps at the chance to cover the return of Roddie Drummond to the Scottish island of Stoirm, not just because he was accused of his girlfriend’s Mhairi’s murder 15 years previously, but also because the island was her father’s birthplace. A place he refused to speak of and never returned to after leaving as a teenager. Rebecca doesn’t find much of a welcome on Stoirm. How much is because she’s digging into Mhairi’s death and how much is because her last name is Connolly? And what is the meaning of Mhairi’s last words: Thunder Bay? Does that part of Stoirm hold the answer to the murder? Secrets. Lies. Family. Before the end of her visit, Rebecca might wish she’d remained ignorant of the truth of both mysteries.
VERDICT: Imbued with the stark beauty of Scottish island life, this atmospheric mystery pulls the reader into an exploration of human frailty, family loyalty and the power of secrets. Sure to appeal to readers of Denise Mina or anyone who enjoys a relatable protagonist and a well-told story.
Revolver Road by Christi Daugherty, 1/1/20 Library Journal
A mysterious phone call sends crime reporter Harper McClain into hiding after she’s warned that the man who murdered her mother 16 years ago is now coming after her. From her hiding place on Tybee Island off the coast of Savannah, she watches for threats, but after several months of peace, she begins to wonder if she overreacted. She’s grateful to distract herself with the latest story—the disappearance of musician Xavier Rayne on the eve of the release of his debut album. As she interviews the three people living in his house—supposedly the last to see him—Harper’s instincts tell her something darker is going on. When two fishermen discover Rayne’s body in the ocean with two bullet holes in his chest, Harper’s story becomes big news. As she tries to get close to Xavier’s friends to get a lead on the murderer, Harper gets another anonymous message about the threat from the past—this time urging her to look more closely at her estranged father’s career as a criminal attorney. What she uncovers turns her stomach and chills her blood. As she begins to untangle the knots of both mysteries, Harper’s determination to uncover the truth might be at the cost of her life.
VERDICT: Daugherty has created a complex, likeable heroine that readers will root for, fully fleshed out secondary characters and a plot that is compelling. Readers of newshounds created by Laura Lippman, Hank Phillippi Ryan and Edna Buchanan will find another great series here.
The Ninja Daughter by Tori Eldridge, 11/1/19 Library Journal
After her sister is raped and killed, Chinese Norwegian Lily Wong devotes herself to becoming kunoichi–a female ninja. She vows to protect women and children victims of abuse. When plans to help a Ukrainian woman and her young son flee an abusive mobbed-up husband go awry, Lily is drawn to a newspaper article about another woman in need–Mia Mikkelsen. As she investigates the man Mia has accused of trying to kill her, Lily faces a tangled web that leads back to the Ukrainian mob. Who is in danger? How does a proposed transit route fit in the picture? And why is she drawn to the mysterious and dangerous J. Tran? Eldridge’s debut thriller introduces readers to a heroine for the #MeToo era and deftly explores the dangers of Lily’s avocation, the challenges of familial relationships, and the need to continue to fight the abuse and exploitation of others.
VERDICT: Readers who enjoy an action-packed adventure that doesn’t neglect character development and speaks truth about the human condition will welcome this quirky, passionate, and endearingly relatable protagonist.
Your House Will Pay by Steph Cha, 8/1/19 Library Journal
In a powerful story that examines one of our nation’s greatest challenges, Cha (“Juniper Song” trilogy) introduces readers to the families of Shawn Matthews and Grace Park–two strangers bound by the same tragic events. The story opens with 13-year-old Shawn living in 1991 Los Angeles, a city pulsing and explosive with racial tension after the Rodney King beating. Shawn, whose young life has already been filled with loss, watches in horror as his beloved 16-year-old sister Ava is shot and killed by a convenience store owner who accuses the girl of stealing. Twenty-eight years later, he is trying to change the course of his life after a stint in prison. When his cousin Ray joins the family after his own release from prison, the joyous reunion spins into a nightmare when Ray is arrested for the murder of an elderly Korean woman, Grace Park’s mother. As their lives collide, Shawn and Grace try to unravel secrets and lies in their families to find the way to the truth.
VERDICT: Cha unflinchingly and compassionately examines issues of race, family, generational violence, and the transformative power of forgiveness in this unforgettable novel.
The Satapur Moonstone by Sujata Massey, 4/4/19 Library Journal
India’s first female lawyer is back in her 2nd mystery from Massey (after 2018’s The Widows of Malabar Hill). This time Perveen Mistry finds herself traveling to the remote princely state of Satapur, to help mediate a dispute between the dowager maharani and her daughter-in-law over the future education of the young maharaja. Perveen’s task is complicated by palace intrigue and the unexpected attraction she feels for the British political agent for the kingdom, Colin Sandringham. When intrigue turns to murder, Perveen realizes her mission has moved beyond education and into the realm of life and death. It will take all her skill and intuition to keep the young prince, and herself, alive.
VERDICT: Once again Massey does a superb job of combining a fascinating snapshot into the past of British-ruled India with a top-notch mystery. She has created a strong, appealing heroine who is forging her own path in a rapidly changing world. Highly recommended for fans of other intrepid women such as Elizabeth Peter’s Amelia Peabody or Tasha Alexander’s Lady Emily.
The Hanging Psalm by Chris Nickson, 1/2/19 Library Journal
Simon Westow has gained some renown throughout Leeds, England as a thief-taker—someone who locates stolen property and turns it, and the thief, over to the wealthy owners. When he’s tasked with finding John Milner’s kidnapped daughter Hannah, Simon takes on the case, though he’s never before conducted such a search. As Simon and his capable assistant Jane look for clues they discover an enemy from the past who always seems to be a step ahead and won’t stop until he’s sought revenge on everything Simon holds dear. This dark tale features a strong and sympathetic hero as well as equally appealing supporting characters. While the story sometimes gets bogged down in the details of life in 1820s Leeds, the mystery is fulfilling overall.
VERDICT: Nickson (“Richard Nottingham” and “Tom Harper” series) once again travels back in time in a new Leeds-set mystery that is likely to draw in readers of Andrea Penrose, Charles Finch, and Anne Perry.
Murder on Millionaires’ Row by Erin Lindsey, 10/1/18 Library Journal
“Bloodhound” fantasy series author Lindsey’s first mystery weaves a tale rich with history and supernatural elements. Rose Gallagher works as a housemaid on “Millionaires’ Row,” where the glitz and glamour of high society New York is in vivid contrast to her upbringing in the gritty Five Points neighborhood. When her handsome employer Thomas Wiltshire disappears, Rose is determined to locate him, since the police are convinced he’s just a rich dandy off on a bender. Using her wits and intuition, Rose finds Thomas, who has been held captive by a gang of roughs. But just when she thinks the adventure is over, the appearance of a ghostly figure opens Rose’s eyes to a world she never knew existed, changing her life forever.
VERDICT: With a strong, likable heroine and a well-drawn cast of characters, this highly recommended romp through late 19th-century New York will have readers clamoring for the next installment.
Buried in Books by Kate Carlisle, 6/1/18 Library Journal
The 12th entry in Carlisle’s bookish cozy series (Once Upon a Spine) finds book restorer Brooklyn Wainwright days away from her wedding to hunky Derek Stone. She has everything under control until her mother surprises her with a bridal shower. The surprises keep coming when Brooklyn learns her mother invited her two best friends from college. For 12 years, Heather and Sara have been estranged, ever since Sara stole Heather’s boyfriend. After a rocky start, Brooklyn manages to avert a crisis when the two appear reconciled. But when Brooklyn discovers Sara’s body crushed beneath crates of books, Heather zooms to the top of the suspect list. Also, it turns out that Sara’s wedding gift, a rare copy of The Three Musketeers, is actually a forgery. Now to ensure their wedding day ends in happy-ever-after, Brooklyn and Derek must follow the clues they hope will lead them to a killer.
VERDICT: Carlisle does a great job of evoking life in San Francisco through a delightful cast of quirky characters. Her usual blend of humor and mystery will draw in both new and longtime readers. Recommended for admirers of Jenn McKinley, Lorna Barrett and Joan Hess.
The Secrets of the Blanche Bastide by M.L. Longworth, 1/1/18 Library Journal
Life in Aix-en-Provence gets a little more interesting when infamous author Valère Barbier buys the Bastide Blanche, a grand estate that has sat empty for years. Barbier’s desire for a quiet life is dashed by unexpected visitors and voices that haunt him in the night. When he isn’t the only one to have terrifying encounters in the bastide, Judge Antoine Verlaque begins to dig into Barbier’s history for answers while his wife looks into rumors that the early owners of the bastide were hiding some shocking secrets. Is someone from Barbier’s past out to get him, or is he simply a convenient target for ghosts?
VERDICT: Longworth (The Curse of La Fontaine) once again transports readers to the South of France, peppering the story with sensory details that bring the setting to life. Antoine and wife Marine are as delightful as ever, and the compelling mystery keeps you wanting more.
The Woman in the Water by Charles Finch, 1/1/18 Library Journal
In this prequel to Finch’s long-standing historical series, a very young Charles Lenox is eager to prove his worth as a detective. In 1850 London, his problem is getting Scotland Yard and his friends to believe in his abilities. Lenox and his valet Graham come across an intriguing letter in one of the city’s less illustrious daily papers—a letter that brags about the commission of a perfect murder. Lenox and Graham begin to dig into the affair and soon make connections that the police did not. While Lenox has the support of the commissioner, he has become something of a joke among the Yard’s investigators. Nevertheless, he perseveres. As he works to unravel clues to prevent another murder, Lenox has to deal with unrequited love and the shocking news of his father’s failing health. Can he find the strength to pursue his dreams? Can he beat a fiendish killer at his own game?
VERDICT: Finch (The Inheritance) does a wonderful job of re-creating the atmosphere of mid-19th-century England; his characters are crisply drawn and believable. It’s wonderful to see the neophyte Lenox develop the skills for which he becomes renowned in later books. An excellent addition to an already terrific series.
The Queen’s Prophet by Dawn Patitucci, 10/1/17 Library Journal
DEBUT As a dwarf in 17th-century Europe, Maria-Barbara knew she was one of the lucky ones when her mother sold her to the Countess of Walther. For almost 40 years, Mari was the German countess’s companion and lived in comfort and security until her mistress’s death forced her to make a difficult choice: either be sold to another master or live the uncertain life of “freedom.” Impulsively, Mari joins forces with a traveling magician and together they earn enough to keep themselves warm and fed. But then the magician betrays Mari by selling her to the Queen of Spain. Worse yet, she has been bought for her reputed skill as a prophet. At the Spanish court, Mari gets sucked into a world of intrigue and political maneuvering and must learn how to play the role of prophet to save both her own life and that of her new queen. Mari is a sympathetic protagonist, and Patitucci does a good job of depicting the precarious, often heartbreaking, existence of dwarves in the 1600s. The court politics are fascinating, as are many of the players, especially fellow court dwarf Nicolas. But at times the story gets bogged down in excessive details of court life, and the ending feels a little abrupt.
VERDICT: Inspired by the life of the dwarf Maribaribola, depicted in Velazquez’s masterpiece Las Meninas, this debut novel will likely appeal to fans of Philippa Gregory and the HBO series Game of Thrones.
The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey, 9/1/17 Library Journal
This new series set in 1920s India introduces Perveen Mistry, the first woman to practice law in that country. The story alternates between 1916, when Perveen is a starry-eyed bride living in her husband’s family home in Calcutta, and 1921, when she is working alongside her father in the family law firm in Bombay. Tasked with executing the will of Omar Farid, Perveen notices that Faisal Mukri, the guardian appointed by the husband, has persuaded Farid’s three widows to donate their inheritance to charity. Since the women live in purdah(total seclusion from the world), Perveen wants to ensure that they understand the full ramifications of giving away their inheritance. An infuriated Mukri fires Perveen for her interference but then a short time later the young lawyer discovers his dead body. Did a family member kill Mukri to protect their inheritance? Massey, who wrote about contemporary Japan in her “Rei Shimura” series, does a wonderful job of bringing India at the beginning of the 20th century to life. She gives enough cultural and historical details without overwhelming readers with facts. The two plot lines effectively depict the development of the main character and the mystery as it unfolds.
VERDICT: Massey’s fans and historical fiction lovers will enjoy this fresh and original outing.
The Curse of La Fontaine by M.L. Longworth, 3/1/17 Library Journal
When a rising chef opens a restaurant in Aix-en-Provence, it proves to be very popular with the locals. That is, until he reveals his vision to turn the historic courtyard into an outdoor eating area. Despite the vocal protests, he proceeds with his plan, only to be derailed when a skeleton is unearthed next to the landmark fountain, the site of a 17th century hanging as well as two murders committed during World War II. Everyone agrees the fountain is cursed, except for Judge Antoine Verlaque, who is all too familiar with human evil. With help from his new wife Marine, Verlaque uncovers myriad suspects in the small community. Longworth’s sixth series entry (after The Mystery of the Lost Cezanne) does a wonderful job of transporting readers to the south of France. The uniqueness of the French justice system is outlined without stopping the action with too many details. The sleuths are appealing, as are many of the supporting characters. Layers of clues require close attention, but the payoff is worth the effort.
VERDICT: Fans of Georges Simenon and Joanne Harris with enjoy this work, which definitely will appeal to readers who like a little armchair travel with their whodunits.
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