Jazz Cross is a society reporter with Pulitzer dreams working for the Galveston Gazette. She seems to have a knack for landing in the middle of mysteries. As this story starts out her job is to review the new vaudeville act that just came into town. Little does she know that an ex-boyfriend is part of the troop or that what is going on backstage is far more interesting than the show itself.

She and her current boyfriend, federal agent James Burton, are called to deal with a murder at her brother’s speakeasy club only to find out the man isn’t dead. However, before they can question him at the hospital the next day they discover he has disappeared only to turn up later at the same club, this time very much dead. It is soon revealed that he has ties to the Vaudeville troop and not long after, the death of a second person involved with the show adds to the deepening mystery. Meanwhile Jazz and Burton have discovered a possible jewel theft ring involving members of the troop that has landed Jazz’s brother in some serious hot water with the local gangs that already want him dead.

I don’t often review to a soundtrack, however this review called for an old favorite to be dusted off, several actually. When I was in high school I was in a Madrigal group which officially speaking specializes in music from the Renaissance, however our music director had a serious thing for jazz and the music mentioned throughout this book set me off down memory lane.

This was, for me, the first book in this series that I have read. Though there is obviously a history with the characters, it is a fine stand alone story that encourages, but doesn’t require further reading to keep up.

This particular era in American history, although quite brutal, lends itself beautifully to the cozy mystery genre with its fierce heroines and brave and brash heroes. Ms. Collier’s exquisite attention to details such as speech and clothing, just added to the enjoyment of a well written story. I appreciated the inclusion of a glossary of terms from the era and the information from the preface. Both provided a solid base for the story.

This was the golden era of feminism. Newly independent women were venturing into male dominated arenas sparking an over-reaction of condescension and sexism on the part of men not quite sure how deal with the changing world. There is always the tendency to make male characters in this time a cliche of stupid lugs, especially when dealing with journalists or law enforcement, but I have to say that in this story the author managed a fine balance. Jasmine is feisty and independent, but not crass or aggressive and the men she deals with earn an eye roll, but aren’t over the top. It was great to see she quite is capable of getting herself into and out of trouble, but isn’t afraid to allow her men to rescue her as need be.

I also adored how the seemingly straightforward story line was anything but simple. Jazz, in trying to help, makes things worse and then when that seems like it will be too much to overcome, the story twists again. Even her simple investigation to find Derek has unseen complications. All in all it was an enjoyable single sitting read, with a cast of characters I would like to spend more time with.

5 stars

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ( )

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