Tell Me, Pretty Maiden (Molly Murphy Mysteries 7)

Tell Me, Pretty Maiden

(Rhys Bowen)

:Teaser:

Since returning from Ireland, Molly has had more cases than she can handle.  So, when she finally has a free afternoon, she is excited to be spending it with her long time beau, Daniel.  They go to the park for a romantic stroll through the freshly fallen snow.  Molly is having a wonderful time until she stumbles upon a young girl buried under the snow.   The girl is alive, but she remains in shock.  She doesn't talk or seem to understand anyone.  Molly takes it upon herself to find the girl's family and to find out what terrible thing could have happened to her.

:Short Thought:

This book is chock full of exciting cases, major character developments, and interesting new people and places.  It is truly a exciting ride from start to finish.  This is my new series' favorite!

:Expanded Thoughts:

(Very Minor Spoilers)

This is definitely the best in this series so far!  Tell Me, Pretty Maiden doesn't waste any time engaging us and continues to gain momentum until the fantastic finish.  There are four major cases/mysteries, and each are well developed and deliciously interesting.  I still can't believe that they were all in this one book. 

These cases take us to many wonderful new places, such as: backstage at a theatre, inside a college dormitory, and behind the gates of a sanitarium.  You are never really sure where the cases will lead you next.  Even a seasoned mystery reader will be delighted by the wonderful twists and turns incorporated.

Daniel and Molly's relationship strengthens tremendously in this book.  Thus, we are treated to many sweet moments between them throughout the novel.  They have always been close because of their deep feelings for one another, but their professional lives cause each other frustration for a variety of reasons.  Daniel has never liked Molly's choice of profession nor has he ever really respected her investigating skills.  Daniel's negative views have plagued Molly as the couple gets closer to the point of marriage. 

Daniel's view really begins to change when Molly offers him a temporary partnership to help with her many ongoing investigations.  (Daniel is out of jail, but he is still unemployed and not getting paid.)  While working together as equals, we see what a great team they truly make.  Daniel begins to acknowledge her investigating skills, and Molly sees that she can learn a few things from the former police captain. 

:Additional Notes:

Series Info:  Tell Me, Pretty Maiden is the seventh book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the books available in this series, in order starting from the beginning, are:

• Murphy's Law
• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion
• Bless the Bride

Author's Sites:  Want to know more about the author?  Here is a list of Rhys Bowen's sites:

• Rhys Bowen's Official Site
• On Twitter @rhysbowen
• Rhys Bowen's Blog:  Rhys' Pieces
• Rhys Bowen's YouTube Channel

  :

In Dublin's Fair City (Molly Murphy Mysteries 6)

In Dublin's Fair City

(Rhys Bowen) 

:Teaser:

Daniel is now out of prison, but the police commissioner has refused to give him back his job.  Molly is happy that he is back, but she finds that his abundance of free time has made him unbearable to be around.  So, when she is hired by a high profile theatre impresario to locate someone in Ireland, she is relieved.  She jumps at the chance despite the potential dangers of entering the country she once fled.

:Short Thought:

The first few chapters in In Dublin's Fair City take place in New York, but the rest of the novel takes place in Ireland.  With the new setting come a new cast of characters, but it still has the same engaging magic that other books in this series have.

:Expanded Thoughts:

(No Spoilers)

Molly has been building a life in New York since fleeing from her native Ireland in the first novel.  So, it is easy to forget that Molly once lived another life.  The breadth of this book takes place in Ireland and provides tidbits about the life and people that she left behind.  By briefly returning to Ireland, it gives her a form of closure and reassures us that Molly's home is now truly in New York.    

This book concentrates on Molly.  It takes her away from her fabulous friends and her blue-eyed beau.  We get to see how living in America has changed her from the desperate, naive girl who left Ireland in Murphy's Law.  She reenters the country wearing a nice outfit, her head held high, and ready to investigate. 

Trouble and danger are never very far behind Molly, and they are particularly cunning and devious in this book.  She begins with one case--locating Tommy Burke's Irish relative.  As she begins to investigate the Burke family, the case takes on a life of its own.  Each new development was full of twists, unexpected turns, and great supporting characters.

I must admit that I read this book twice before I wrote this post.  (Thus the two week delay)  I didn't really like it the first time that I read it.  I was left quite frustrated, but I had totally different experience when I read it again.  I now love it, and I think that it is one of the strongest of the series.  It answered a lot of questions about Molly's past, and it had a special je ne sais quoi that was refreshing and unique to the series.

I have since figured out the reason why I didn't enjoy the book at first.  I was wearing Daniel and Molly "blinders," and this book concentrates on Molly.  I let that bias my opinion.

:Additional Notes:

Series Info:  In Dublin's Fair City is the sixth book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the books available in this series, in order starting from the beginning, are:

• Murphy's Law
• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion
• Bless the Bride

Author's Sites:  Want to know more about the author?  Here is a list of Rhys Bowen's sites:

• Rhys Bowen's Official Site
• On Twitter @rhysbowen
• Rhys Bowen's Blog:  Rhys' Pieces
• Rhys Bowen's YouTube Channel

  :

Oh Danny Boy (Molly Murphy Mysteries 5)

Oh Danny Boy

(Rhys Bowen) 

:Teaser:

Since Molly’s return to the city, she has concentrated on avoiding Daniel Sullivan and moving on with her life.  She is successful until one of his constables shows up at her door and forces her to see him.  Naturally, she is livid until she finds out that he has actually been in jail for a bogus, yet serious crime.  Upon seeing his pitiful state, she agrees to find the person responsible in order to prove his innocence.  She focuses on Daniel’s active cases to find clues.  Had someone wanted him off an investigation?  As she proceeds,  Molly gets entangled in the search for a dangerous serial killer, The Ripper, who has already claimed several female victims.

:Short Thought:

This is a great addition to the series!  Molly faces some of her toughest challenges, both personally and professionally, as she fights a system that is against her.  Our wonderful heroine is still a enjoy to follow.  As for the supporting characters, there are wonderful returning characters woven throughout the story as well as a couple of new delights.  As for the mystery, it keeps twisting, turning, and building until the very end.  Loved it!

:Expanded Thoughts:

[No Spoilers]

In Oh Danny Boy, Molly is put through a mountain of tests.  Her investigative skills are pushed to the limit as well as her heart.   Molly is stretched so thin that she even allows Sid and Gus to do some of her detective work.  (It was to the sheer delight of the pair and the mild horror of Molly.)  Every break in her investigation brings about more questions and more possible connections.  A reader can't help but notice desperation slowly creeping into Ms. Murphy as her mind is ever haunted by the image of Daniel suffering in a cage.

Each of the previous novels treats the reader to a slice of the setting's culture.  As Molly's investigation progresses, she is constantly being led to Coney Island.  We are also given a glimpse into how the criminal system may have been from both sides.  We are “taken” into the Medical Examiner’s office, the prison, and the Public Defender's office.  We're also given a closer look into the system's devastating effect on an accused through Daniel and the ruin of his social support and career. 

On a brighter note, a big highlight of the novel was the introduction of a new character—Police Matron Sabella Goodwin.  Sabella Goodwin is actually based on a real woman.  (There is an author note at the end of the book that tells more about her.)  In the book, she acts as a role model and confidante.  Molly trusts her completely and tells her things that she wouldn't dream of revealing to anyone else.  She is also the first person since Paddy Riley from whom Molly can learn.  She finally has a female friend with whom she can relate on a professional level as well as a personal level.

Oh Danny Boy was a real treat!  I was a bit concerned before I started reading, because In Like Flynn was so great.  I thought that this one would pale in comparison.  I was wrong.  It had Molly back with the same magnetic and witty personality that makes everyone want to keep reading.

:Additional Notes:

Series Info:  Oh Danny Boy is the fifth book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the books available in this series, in order starting from the beginning, are:

• Murphy's Law
• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion
• Bless the Bride

Author's Sites:  Want to know more about the author?  Here is a list of Rhys Bowen's sites:

• Rhys Bowen's Official Site
• On Twitter @rhysbowen
• Rhys Bowen's Blog:  Rhys' Pieces
• Rhys Bowen's YouTube Channel

  :

In Like Flynn (Molly Murphy Mysteries 4)

In Like Flynn

(Rhys Bowen)

:Teaser:

Lately, the city is not being too kind to Ms. Murphy.  Her love life is strained, and she has inadvertently put herself on the bad side of a local gang. So, when Daniel offers her an undercover job across the Hudson River, Molly jumps at the chance.  The job is to expose two well known mediums as frauds while posing as a distant Irish cousin of the family that hired them.  But that isn't only the mystery that Molly encounters.  Not long before, the family's young son was kidnapped and believed to be buried alive, but a body was never found.  Behind Daniel's back, Molly has promised another client to find out the truth about what really happened to the young boy.  As Molly's begins uncovering the family's hidden secrets, it becomes apparent that someone will do anything to keep the truth hidden.

:Short Thought:

This novel took Molly out of her new home in the city and placed her in the quiet countryside.  It was delightful and refreshing to see Molly dig out the truth from a whole new crowd.  It was definitely my favorite of the series thus far.  It had a mystery full of murder, dark family secrets, and political agendas. 

:Expanded Thoughts:

(No Spoilers)

As I've said in earlier reviews of this series, each book seems to focus on one element, or place, in old New York Society.  (slums, Greenwich Village, garment industry, etc)  This novel's focus is on the slower-paced lifestyle right outside of the city.  Here, the social circles are smaller, but the houses are much bigger. It seems that everyone knows everyone, and there is a layer of dark secrets and agendas under all the politeness and beautiful scenery.  Molly is given a rare opportunity to break into the Flynns', the wealthy family with whom she is staying, world at a higher level of familiarity as she poses as the husband's distant Irish cousin whom no one has actually ever met.  Some of the family members immediately trust her, and this gives the reader a front seat show into the peculiar minds of these socially isolated wealthy.

Molly's detective skills are on full display in In Like Flynn, and there is much apparent improvement.  (I still remember that botched divorce case in the previous novel.  Quel désastre!)  She is thrown into a situation in which she knows no one, except what she has read in documents provided by the police for the medium case, and she must maintain her cover while conducting an investigation.  It is quite a tall order, but Molly shines as always as she gets them to trust and confide in her.

Over the first three novels, Molly's love life has been slowly developing with the introduction of Jacob and Daniel's socialite fiance.  In this fourth novel, each man falls short when it comes to their treatment of Molly.  Jacob isn't as comfortable with being open about their relationship as he led her to believe, and Daniel still won't shake that snobby fiance off off his arm.  The "trip" to the country gives her a welcome retreat from their false promises. She leaves all the love drama behind when she crosses that river and shows, for the first time since the beginning of the first novel, that she can do very well investigating and living on her own. 

:Additional Notes:

In Like Flynn is the fourth book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the books available in this series, in order starting from the beginning, are:

• Murphy's Law
• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion

For The Love of Mike (Molly Murphy Mysteries 3)

 

For the Love of Mike

(Rhys Bowen) 

:Teaser:

Having taken over Paddy Riley's private investigation business, Molly has finally begun her life as a real private investigator.  She lands her first big undercover job when the owner of a large garment factory hires her to find out which one of his workers is spying for the competition. Not long after she enters the factory posing as a new hire, she receives a job locating a young society woman who ran away to America to marry her beau.  Business is going well for Molly until these two jobs collide, and she finds herself in serious danger once again.

:Short Thought:

For the Love of Mike shows the living and working conditions for factory women of this time period from a unique and interesting perspective and weaves it brilliantly into a wonderfully paced mysterious plot with interesting characters.

:Expanded Thoughts:

(Minor Spoilers)

Each book in this series goes into a specific aspect of New York culture. In For the Love of Mike, the female factory worker's life is explored.  The reader is shown firsthand what the working environment was like--the smell, appearance, and people.  The books also shows the desperate life these women live while trying to surivive on ridiculously low wages and long hours.

This novel also touched on the early formations of female labor unions. Jacob Singer, new aquaintance of Molly, works with an organization that aids in initiating strikes, negotiating with unsavory bosses, and forming labor unions.  Two such situations are shown in the book, and it was fascinating.  Though, I must say that I find it hard to believe that matters could be resolved as quickly as in the book.  (I don't know about this period of history so I may be completely off.)  Modern day strikes and labor negotiations take months and months.  Reading about it was still enjoyable if not too believable.

As told in the last book in this series, Molly's love life is less than ideal.  She has been left waiting for Daniel to break off his engagement to the beautiful and wealthy Arabella for quite awhile.  Daniel seems content to move at a dead snail's pace to remedy the situation and truly takes Molly's feelings for granted.  That is, until the introduction of another suitor for Ms. Murphy--Jacob Singer.  Jacob Singer is a Jewish photographer that works with an organization to get better working conditions for women in the city.  Instead of using his photography to make lots of money, he uses it to expose the wrongs in the city.  He would rather help others than get caught up in ambition, and Molly finds him a very refreshing departure from Daniel.  Daniel finally starts to fear that he may be losing Molly if he doesn't get his situation straightened out.

As I've just finished the 3rd book in this series, I think I can finally say that this is one of my favorite mystery series!  It really has the perfectly balanced "recipe."  I say this because this is the first mystery series that I have read that has the story drive the characters and not the other way around.  For example, there is a great love story in here, but it doesn't overpower the story nor is the story dull without it.  I just find it refreshing when so many mystery books are filled with raunchy sex scenes and shoddy mystery plots.  Molly Murphy Mysteries is a great series, and everything is done tastefully and brilliantly.  I can't wait to read the next one!

:Additional Notes:

For the Love of Mike is the third book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the books available in this series, in order starting from the beginning, are:

• Murphy's Law
• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion

Death Of Riley (Molly Murphy Mysteries 2)

  
Death of Riley
 (Rhys Bowen)


:Teaser:

Despite having a string of sensational job failures, Molly is still determined to be self-reliant.  She has no shortage of motivations--her once wonderful living arrangement has become unbearable, the object of her affection has been less than truthful, and no one is taking her seriously.  Molly finally catches a break when she convinces a seasoned private investigator, Paddy Riley, to hire her as his housekeeper.  A few days later when she arrives at the office to tidy up, Molly walks into find Mr. Riley dead at his desk.  What's even worse is that the killer is still there when she arrives and sees her face.  She knows the situation is dangerous, but feels that she owes it to Mr. Riley to find his killer.

:Short Thought:

Though I thoroughly enjoyed the first novel in this series, it pales in comparison to this one.  The characters are even more interesting, the mystery is even more shocking and elaborate, and Molly shines even brighter.

:Expanded Thoughts:

(No Spoilers)

The focus of the setting in Death of Riley is on Greenwich Village and the delightful, unique characters that live there.  It is a far departure from the slum-like parts of the city on which the first novel focused. Greenwich village is full of delightful pubs and coffee houses that act as centers of great dialogues about art and social progression.  This unpretentious and forgiving place allows people to be expressive without fear of being offensive.  It is the first place that Molly feels like she belongs.

Molly is a stubborn, unconventional force of nature, but she met her match in her new friends from Greenwich Village. She meets the unforgettable Sid and Gus in a pub during her investigation.  They are two women that truly care what no one thinks of their quirky and unconventional ways.  Most importantly, they are the first people that really accept Molly for who she is and encourage her to achieve her goals.  Frequently with them is another notable character--the handsome Ryan O'Hare.  He is a flamboyant Irish playwright and the most charming person Molly has ever seen. She is instantly drawn to him and is all too happy to investigate when he becomes a person of interest in her investigation.

I loved the first novel (Murphy's Law), but I have to say Sid, Gus, and Ryan really take it to a whole new level of enjoyment. 

:Additional Notes:

Death of Riley is the second book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the books available in this series, in order starting from the beginning, are:

• Murphy's Law
• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion

Murphy's Law (Molly Murphy Mysteries 1)

Murphy's Law

(Rhys Bowen)

:Teaser:

Molly is on the run from authorities in Ireland for a murder she committed in self-defense. Just when she thought that her luck was running out, she finds a way onto a ship that is traveling across the ocean to New York City. Unfortunately when she arrives she is greeted by more trouble.  A man that Molly was seen fighting with on the ship is brutally murdered and all the evidence points to her as being involved.  To clear her name, she must find the real murderer or risk being sent back to Ireland.

:Short Thought:

Gives the reader a window into early 1900s New York City through the eyes of the ever-witty Molly Murphy.  Great mystery with wonderful characters.  I loved it!

:Expanded Thoughts:

(No Spoilers)

Let me first say that I know next to nothing about this period of American history (early 1900s), the city of New York, (other than what I've seen on Law & Order), or Irish History. So, I can't really say much about the historical elements or the portrayal of the city in the novel or the historical accuracy or anything of the like. All I can say is, despite my blaring ignorance, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and was excited to learn more about these things while immersing myself in a great storyline.

Murphy's Law has a great cast of characters. The star at the center is Miss Molly Murphy. She is a true force of nature and is decades ahead of her time. She is truly delightful and makes makes each scene pop with very refreshing energy as she faces the issues of this period head-on. Molly adds dimension to the setting of the novel. Using her, New York City is shown through the eyes of a true newcomer. It is a huge contrast from Molly's country Irish home. She shares her experience as she stands in awe of the sights that come with this fast-developing place and struggles to make her way.  It is a city that never sleeps and a place full of new opportunities and dangers.

If, like me, you don't really know anything about this period or city, you don't need to worry because Molly and the people she meets makes this a wonderful, engaging mystery.

:Additional Notes:

Murphy's Law is the first book in Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy Mysteries series. As of this post, the other books available in this series, in order, are:

• Death of Riley
• For The Love of Mike
• In Like Flynn
• Oh Danny Boy
• In Dublin's Fair City
• Tell Me, Pretty Maiden
• In a Gilded Cage
• The Last Illusion

Why Mermaids Sing: Sebastian St. Cyr Mysteries 3

Why Mermaids Sing

(C.S. Harris)

Pages: 352
Year Published: 2008

Teaser: In London, a series of strange murders have everyone concerned. Someone is killing young sons of noblemen and mutilating the corpses in a manner that would suggest the killer is sending someone a message. Sir Henry Lovejoy grows increasingly concerned and begs the help of Viscount Devlin once again.

Short Thought: The novel that has it all--a brilliant mystery, powerful and complex characters, a historical backdrop, and a complicated romance.

Expanded Thoughts: Okay, I admit it. My name is Jenn and I am now a Sebastian-aholic. This series has me hooked. So let's just dive right in this review of the book that gave me my most potent literary drug.

This novel is a huge turning point in this series. The previous novels have all eluded to Sebastian's dark and troubled nature, and this novel truly brings the entire darkness. He finds himself bombarded with political scandal, deep family secrets, treason against the crown, and another unsavory dealings that span for decades in this novel. For a man that has no love for society and its curious happenings, he still finds himself broken down and closer to the dark place in which he lived during the war.

The characters are well developed and some of the best I have come across, but the true star of this book was the mystery plot. Now, don't get me wrong, the other novels in this series had great mystery plots too, but this one took my breath away. It was the first novel in a long time that for which I threw away precious sleep. (I love sleep!) Yep, I didn't sleep the whole night, but somehow I wasn't tired one bit. (Just twitching for the next novel.)

{Spoilers}

Here's the gist of the mystery: Bodies of young men are being left during the night in public parks. These young men are being killed and left in mutilated states. Sir Henry Lovejoy picks up one of the murders but is stumped at trying to develop a victimology. The victims don't fit any pattern--class, appearance, or even location of residence. The only thing that they have in common is the killer, whoever they are. Their bodies were also found with curious items stuffed in their mouths--a star cut-out, a mandrake root, and a goat's foot. Lovejoy, knowing that Sebastian can't turn away from exacting justice, persuades him to become involved. It is then that Sebastian realizes that the murderer is following an old Donne poem:

"'Go and Catch a Falling Star
Get with child a mandrake root,
Tell me where all past years are,
Or who cleft the devil's foot,
Teach me to hear mermaids singing,
Or to keep off envy's stinging,
And find
What wind
Serves to advance an honest mind.'"

Even more important, Sebastian discovers that the killer isn't picking his victims at random as a crazed serial killer would. He is killing certain men's sons and doing it for revenge. As he races to find the common link between the victims to prevent the next murder, he begins to uncover an older and unspeakable crime that several men have kept covered for many years. The closer he gets to uncovering the old and unspeakable crime of the fathers, the more dangerous the situation becomes.

One of the most pronounced themes of this novel was FAMILY. Society suggests that family should be number one in a man's life, but as this novel clearly shows that many times those of the upper class put their name and image first. First, the fathers of the victims are willing to sacrifice their sons in order to keep their secret quiet. They won't help with the investigation. They actually try to have Sebastian killed for prying. Next, we have the case of Earl of Hendon, Sebastian's father. He is the classic case. Years ago he paid Kat to leave Sebastian which devastated him. Next, he lied to Sebastian about his mother. For years he believed that his mother was dead, but in fact Hendon has been paying her a stipend to stay away. Then the final blows comes yet again in regard to Kat. Hendon's past indiscretions have managed to tear apart his son's life completely. And it was done to protect the family name.

Let me just go off on a tangent for a moment: What a twist when Kat's past connection is revealed?! For two books, we have witnessed this loving couple be reunited and fall in love yet again. We've also seen how their love for one another never allows them be anything more than just lovers behind the scenes. When Kat's treason to the Crown is discovered by Jarvis, it seems that Sebastian has that final push to make Kat his wife. All begins falling into place, but then quickly shatters. Sebastian matrimonial announcement in the newspaper caught the attention of one of Kat's estranged relatives. Her aunt comes to visit her with news that would sever her relationship with Devlin forever. (You didn't think I was going to give it all away, did ya?)

{End of Spoilers}

As I said before, (me)+(this book)=(love, devotion, and obsession)

Seriously, if you are a fan of mysteries, adventures, or most any other genre. This series should be on your reading queue.

Additional Notes: This contains scenes of violence and dark themes.

When Gods Die: Sebastian St. Cyr Mysteries 2

When Gods Die

(C.S. Harris)

Pages: 400 (MM Paperback)
Year Published: 2007

Teaser: At a important banquet, a noble woman is found murdered with a dagger stuck in her back. What's worse is the Regent is found in a drunken stupor next to her body. The Regent's men immediately go to work to cover up the incident. Unfortunately, Sebastian takes a personal interest in the case when he discovers that the necklace found on the corpse was the same one his mother was wearing the day of her mysterious death. He refuses to back down until he gets to the bottom of the situation no matter how much dangerous.

Short thought: A wonderful, historical mystery with powerful characters and an intricate and ever-developing plot.

Expanded thoughts: I dare say that I am slowly becoming obsessed with this series. What makes me love it? It has a great main characters, a voice that isn't geared to a gender specific audience, a great adventure filled plot, and mystery that isn't predictable in the least. It also is fun for me because I don't know anything about Victorian England. So, it's like being opened up to a new world.

As I've mentioned in other posts, I find it hard to express my thoughts without giving spoilers. And I HATE to give spoilers. (Because if you are looking for a book to read, I don't want to ruin it. Why read it if you already know what happens?) So, I'm just going to discuss one item in about this book, and then close this post out.

A new level/depth/dimension was added to this book that made it way better than the first. Sebastian now lives in a country that is on the verge of civil war. There is this underlying tension that is ever-present in this novel that effects every fiber of the characters' beings. Basically, no one can be trusted anymore. You have the supporters of the current monarchy (including the crazy, drunk, and king-to-be prime murder suspect), the supporters of the French, and those wanting revenge for Ireland (best as I can understand, a Catholic v Protestant deal). It just makes this case that Sebastian works on very sensitive and very dangerous. He can't be sure if the murder is political or personal. What's even more nail-biting is that Sebastian can't be sure of the people closest to him. Not even his beloved Kat.

This series was recommended to me, because I was trying to branch out from historical fiction centered in Asian countries. I thought that it would be okay, but not great because I hadn't studied the period that it is centered around. Well, I was wrong. I loved the first book, and this one was even better. I can't wait to start the third one.

Additional Notes: There are scenes that contain a tad bit of descriptive gore.

Paths Not Taken: Nightside Series 5

Paths Not Taken

(Simon R Green)

Pages: 272
Year Published: 2005

Teaser: John Taylor has finally found out who is mother is. She is none other than the first wife of Adam, Lilith, creator of Nightside. So, to find out more about his mother and her destructive future plans he decides to travel to the past to a time before the creation of Nightside. He brings with him a fellow PI, Tommy Oblivion, and his long time 'friend,' the trigger happy Suzie Shooter. (AKA. Holy crap, it's her! RUN!)

Short Thought: More confusing than past novels, but answered a lot of questions and filled in a lot of back story.

Expanded Thoughts: This 5th installment in the Nightside series deviated from the usual 'gumshoe' formula that the others had. The actual 'job' that John receives plays a very small part in this one. The focus was instead on the back story, Nightside and its history, Lilith, and character growth.

That being said, this is a very important novel if you are reading the entire series. It ties up 90% of the plot lines and answers most of the questions that you hadn't even thought to ask yet. It is basically an introduction to the 'BIG SHOWDOWN.'

My only gripe is that the 'time traveling,' paradox' thing really messed with my head. I found it very confusing. So, if you aren't used to reading that kind of sci-fi stuff, be prepared to slow down. (I had to reread some parts 3 times to get the significances and such.)

My apologies for the short review, but honestly I couldn't think of any other way to not give spoilers. This book is chock full of 'em.

Additional Notes: This novel has descriptive violence and dark themes.

Murder Most Frothy: Coffeehouse Mysteries 4

Murder Most Frothy

(Cleo Coyle)

Pages: 272 (Mass Market Paperback)
Year Published: 2006

Teaser: Claire is headed to the Hamptons to help get a friend's restaurant off to a good start. It's summer, and the Hamptons are full of grandiose parties, hopping socialites, and drama at every corner. Claire is thankful for the change of scenery until one of the restaurant employee is found murdered inside of the owner's house. She fears for her friends' live and moves to investigate. I guess there is never a vacation away from murder.

Short Thought: Claire is a great main character. I just can't get enough of this series.

Expanded Thoughts: This is 'cozy mystery' done beautifully yet again. (Or as I call it 'TV alternative.') The characters were great with just enough scandal and drama thrown in. (Well, those are Matteo's two middle names, I believe.) This time, we are treated to a different setting, the Hamptons, and a whole mess of different suspects/party goers. It was fun because I'm a small rural town Tennessee girl and I hadn't even heard of the Hamptons. (I totally thought it was like Hampton Inn hotel or something.) I always love a book that teaches me things that I can use on Jeopardy! some day. It was a nice vacation, and now I'm ready to go back to the Blend. (What can I say? I miss the Baristas.)

My only gripes with this book are minimal. The first is the absence of Detective Quinn. He is in there for maybe a paragraph. I was just hoping for some more of that chemistry he and Claire have. (Can you tell I'm rooting for Mike? huh? huh?) Lastly, it just too darn short, but so is every book in this genre so I can't fault it too much. These books only take me a couple of hours to read, and leave me clawing for the next book. I just need to figure out how to slow my reading. Ah! (Dear Santa, I would like a 1500 page book featuring Ms. Claire Cosi.)

Hex and the City: Nightside Series 4

Hex and The City
(Simon R Green)

Pages: 256 (Mass Market Paperback)
Year Published: 2005

Teaser: John is the closest he has ever been to finding out the truth about his mysterious mother. Lady Luck offers to give him valuable information about his background as payment for a job. This job is dangerous and will put John on the bad sides of some very powerful players in Nightside. As usual, John doesn't seem too upset about it.

Short Thought: As with the other novels in this series, this is sick and twisted fun that is surprisingly easy to relate to.

Expanded Thoughts: This 4th installment in the series builds upon what has been introduced in the previous novels as well as answers a lot of questions and open new doors.

One central theme of the previous books was the mysterious origins of John Taylor. Why does everyone fear him? Who is his 'all-powerful' mother? What of his father? We actually get answers to these questions and more in this book. (Thank God!)

Also, this novel has a interesting and deliciously macabre cast of supporting characters. Some new Nightside residents take center stage. Some of them include: Sinner (sold his soul for love), Pretty Poison (Sinner's demoness lover), and even a unique Madman. They play off of each other well, and can be pretty hilarious at times. My only complaint is that the author's builds these characters up sometimes just lets them go.

Though there are a few redundancies and places that I wish were more developed, this is a great, easy to follow, fantasy story with twisted allusions that tickle your well of useless knowledge.

Additional Notes: This novel contains dark themes and descriptive violence.

The Typhoon Lover: Rei Shimura Mysteries 8

The Typhoon Lover

(Sujata Massey)

Teaser: Rei receives an assignment that lands her back in her ol' stompin' grounds investigating an upper tier Japanese collector. A typhoon hits Tokyo while she is there and traps her with the very person who hired her. Meanwhile, Hugh is left waiting back at home waiting for her return.

Short Thought: Totally turned me off from the series for a long while.

Expanded Thoughts: [SPOILER WARNING] I won't lie; I couldn't even finish this book. It was by far the worst of the series. I have the next two books, but they will stay on my shelf for a long while. This book made me disgusted with a main character that I once loved. Perhaps, I should have done what so many other readers have done and read these out of order or treated it as a stand alone novel.

It portrayed her as an entitled, uppity, ungrateful, morally ambiguous woman. (Is it 2 or 3 lovers she cheated on now?) She had lived off of Hugh for years, was engaged to him, got him into countless troublesome situations, and then threw him by the wayside. She stayed with Takeo for months just to feel more Japanese and set about from the Western World and then ripped his heart out. I know this is more realistic than books usually are when it comes to relationships, but, dang, if I wanted to see that I just need to look out my window. Don't build couples up only to throw it away a second time. I get frustrated with a main character whose personality changes like the wind. So inconsistent!

This book was completely inconsistent with the previous ones in the series. If you are reading these books as a series, I recommend stopping at The Pearl Diver and treating the next ones as stand alone novels. I can only hope that my memory will forget this is a part of the series which I feel in love with at the beginning.

Additional Notes: This novel contains scenes of a sexual nature.

Additional Notes: This is the 8th book in the Rei Shimura Mysteries series by Sujata Massey. There are two more books currently out. (Girl in a Box, Shimura Trouble)

Nightingale's Lament: Nightside Series 3

Nightingale's Lament

(Simon R. Green)

Pages: 256
Year Published: 2004

Teaser: To square off his debts, John Taylor took a job from his long time unfriendly enemy Walker. Of course, he got the job done in a way only "the cursed John Taylor" could--by screwing up the electricity grid for Nightside and leaving a lot of carnage behind. So, John decides to head to Strangefellows to escape Walker's wrath.

While at the bar, John is approached by a man who has a job for him. The man is concerned about his daughter who has recently cut off all contact with her friends and family. He wants to know if she is okay. John agrees to take the job even after he finds out who this mysterious girl is. The daughter is none other than Rossignol, the singer whose songs are so sad that many have committed suicide after listening to them. The problem becomes even more dangerous when John finds out that she is managed by the Cavendishes--one of the most powerful and strange duos in Nightiside. John is suspicious that the Cavendishes are using Ross as a weapon so he brings along the only comrade of his immune to such things, Dead Boy.

Short Thought: Yet another twisted and fun ride that is the best in the series yet.

Expanded Thoughts: Even though Nightside is a place in which no one would want to be found, it is definitely a great place to observe. With each novel, the author shows us yet another dimension of Nightside, sometimes literally, while keeping some of our favorite constants like Strangefellows and its jaded bartender.

This novel was the best in the series so far. In previous posts, I have complained before about the redundancy of some of the syntax. (John Taylor is scary. Nightside is scary. Things are strange in Nightside. Blah blah blah) It was minimized in this one. Granted, it was still there, but not annoyingly so. Also, the 'mystery' plot was much more focused. In previous books, there is so much going on that the actual 'job' gets forgotten sometimes. This 'job' is at the forefront of the story, and becomes extremely trying for John emotionally. He honestly wants to help Rossignol and not just complete the job and intimidate along the way. Lastly, the new supporting characters are the most brilliant and developed yet. All hail Dead Boy!

Though I love this series, I did have one complaint about this novel. The 'Walker' job in the beginning just seemed randomly thrown in to me. It was like a short story just thrown in the beginning.

Over all, a very dark, twisted, and highly entertaining short read.

Additional Notes: This novel contains dark themes, violence, and gore.

Additional Notes: This is the 3rd novel in the Nightside Series by Simon R. Green.

Latte Trouble: Coffeehouse Mysteries 3

Latte Trouble

(Cleo Coyle)

Teaser: Lottie Harmon, a long time Village Blend customer, has finally made it big in the fashion world. She has completed her new collection of clothes that feature a coffee-inspired palette. She decides on the Village Blend as the place for the debut show. As Claire and her fellow baristas serve up the brew, prominent figures of the fashion world begin to fill the shop. All seems to be going well until one of those figures drops dead after being served a drink from Tucker. Claire is determined to prove that Tucker isn't a murderer and to save her shop from yet another scandal.

Short Thought: This novel definitely gives some bite to this genre!

Expanded Thoughts: Don't let the genre fool you! Sure this is a cozy, female-targeted yarn, but this mystery is a fun ride!

As with previous books in the series, the story follows single mother Claire Cosi and her life in New York City. This one centers around the frenzy of New York fashion week and the strange (umm..unique?) characters that are found in that world. It also shows how dangerous and how political the world of fashion is.

Some of the minor characters take a bigger role in this story as well. Each of the Blend's baristas are great characters and are excellently woven into the mystery. Namely, we learn quite a bit about Tucker when he is arrested for murder. I have to note that the author also does this without losing the richness of the main characters as so many other books do.

As for the mystery plot, it was great. It was uncomplicated and simple with a few twists. As with the other books in this series, I can never figure out the perp before it is revealed. That is something that I am usually able to do with books in this genre, but not with these.

I do have a few complaints though. The story is very short and uncomplicated. Claire's character hasn't really grow since the first novel in the series. All the relationships feel like they are still 'up in the air.' There are little tidbits into Claire past. (Mostly with Matteo) But there still isn't anything into which you can sink your teeth.

If you read the other two in this series, you won't be disappointed with this one. It is just as good if not a little bit better.

Additional Notes: This is the 3rd novel in the Coffeehouse Mysteries by Cleo Coyle.

Dead to the World: Sookie Stackhouse Series 4

Dead To The World

(Charlaine Harris)

Teaser: Still fuming from Bill's betrayal, Sookie is back in Bon Temps drowning her anger in her job. She thinks that she may just be granted a period of peace when Bill announces that he is leaving for an extended research trip to Peru. Unfortunately, Sookie's life is never boring. One night while driving home after her shift, she spots Eric, scared and barely clothed, running down the road. When she reaches him, she doesn't find the tough sheriff that she knows but an innocent, charming Northman. Someone has wiped all of his memories leaving him in a highly vulnerable state.

Short Thought: This one was my favorite in the series so far. What can I say, Eric over Bill any time!

Expanded Thoughts: Okay, I think I have to say that this is the best novel of the series so far. The setting is finally back in Bon Temps. (The town with which everyone is starting to fall in love.) We are also treated to learn more about the Fangtasia gang. In the other novels, Bill shielded Sookie from Eric and his gang, so it was nice to have her really see how they were.

Many have said that this novel 'kicks it up a notch,' I agree totally. (BAM!) Why do I think that? Well, the most obvious is that Sookie isn't some scared little belle anymore. Bill isn't there to treat her like an innocent child. She begins to show her Independence and her strength. Also, Sookie is being relied on for help. Not just for her telepathic powers, but Pam and Co are really hoping that Sookie can help to bring Eric back to normal. It is one of the times when the Vampires' super-duper abilities are useless.

[Spoilers]

What else makes me love it? There is tons of 'genuine' Sookie and Eric mush. There has constantly been tension, and I have been hoping for three novels for this 'forbidden' pairing to truly happen. (Can you tell Eric is my favorite?) It finally did, if even for a brief period. When Eric loses his memories, he also loses all of his greed, darkness, and boundaries. He becomes a simple, honest man. (No, really, Eric, simple, and honest in the same sentence.) And though it is no secret that I despise those mushy intimate scenes (granny entertainment), I didn't mind them in this one so much. For those of you that do like them, I will just say that you will get your money's worth and more.

[End of Spoilers]

All that being aside, the story was the best yet. My only complaint about it is that it was too short. It could have had an extra 100 pages and been a masterpiece, but it was still great and entertaining. Ah, bah! Enough of this, if you are hooked on Sookie, this is a volume in the series that you can't miss! (Especially, if you have a thing for blonde vikings!)

Additional Notes: This is the 4th book in the Sookie Stackhouse Series by Charlaine Harris. (This series is also known as the Southern Vampire Mysteries.)

Additional Notes: This novel contains violence, coarse language, and scenes depicting sexual situations.