Source: Publisher
Description: A summer of fun at a Catskills resort comes to an abrupt end when a guest is found murdered, in this new 1950s set mystery series.
It's the summer of 1953, and Elizabeth Grady is settling into Haggerman's Catskills Resort. As a vacation getaway, Haggerman's is ideal, and although Elizabeth's ostentatious but well-meaning mother is new to running the resort, Elizabeth is eager to help her organize the guests and the entertainment acts. But Elizabeth will have to resort to untested abilities if she wants to save her mother's business.
When a reclusive guest is found dead in a lake on the grounds, and a copy of The Communist Manifesto is found in his cabin, the local police chief is convinced that the man was a Russian spy. But Elizabeth isn't so sure, and with the fate of the resort hanging in the balance, she'll need to dodge red herrings, withstand the Red Scare, and catch a killer red-handed.
Genre: Mystery - Historical
Why I Picked This Book: I really like Vicki Delany and this setting looked fantastic.
My Impression: This was an entertaining read. I liked Elizabeth and the behind the scenes running of the Catskills resort. Olivia was a fun side character and adds a touch of glamour to the resort and a solid heaping helping of frustration to Elizabeth's life. The mystery was well done and kept me guessing throughout the book.
The atmosphere of the resort was very well done though I did occasionally forget the book takes place in the 1950s - especially at the beginning. This is the first book in a new series with a unique setting and a solid cast of characters. Unfortunately, at times this slows the pacing of the book and kept me from absolutely loving it. That said I did really enjoy it and absolutely can't wait for the next book.
Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Absolutely! I love Vick Delany - she never fails to tell an entertaining story.
Would I Recommend this Book? Definitely! If you enjoy well done mysteries with an interesting setting I think you'll really enjoy this one.
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *
Thanks for the review. An author I have read and liked. Will be looking out for this one.
ReplyDeleteYea! I've had my eye on this one for a couple of weeks now and I thought it would be good. If you liked it, I will like it too for sure.
ReplyDeleteGoing to see if I can get a copy.
Have a good week, Katherine!
Elza Reads
What a great setting, both the time period and location. I am going to have to give this series a try. I am glad you enjoyed this one!
ReplyDeleteI have this one on hold at the library and am looking forward to reading it! Thanks for your review.
ReplyDeleteAs soon as I saw the author I knew this would be in your wheelhouse. The fact the mystery kept you guessing was great in itself.
ReplyDeleteDog cover. ❤
ReplyDelete