To my mind, historical mysteries are some of the best mysteries being written at the moment. They combine classic elements of detective fiction, unmarred by cell phones or computers, and combine it with fascinating time periods and characters. These wonderful books are now all available to order on our website, along with many other historical mysteries (have a browse!) Kathleen Marple Kalb’s first novel came out this April, a difficult time for a first novel, with no bookstore events or conferences to attend. I am not a fan of the cover art, but I am a huge fan of this charming debut. My review ran in Mystery Scene, and you can read it here. The main character, Ella Shane, is a “trouser diva”, an opera singer who sings men’s roles in 1899. At the time, opera was a travelling proposition, as the Met was new. If you enjoy books by C.S. Harris, Anna Lee Huber or Dianne Freeman, check this one out.
Anna Lee Huber’s 4th in her Verity Kent series, A Pretty Deceit, is out September 29 (feel free to preorder). Verity is a former secret service agent right after WWI, and in this outing she and her husband investigate a dead body on the grounds of Verity’s husband’s aunt’s estate in Wiltshire. Readers of Anna Lee Huber know what a gifted storyteller she is, combining romance, a dash of adventure and a terrific story.
And finally Poisoned Pen Press offers readers a paperback bargain – The Deadly Hours – an historical fiction anthology featuring Susanna Kearsley, C.S. Harris, Anna Lee Huber and Christine Trent. This is an incredible deal and a chance to really escape the reality of the world for a few hours in the company of some wonderful writers. Dear readers, the world is your oyster!