"A delightful mix of mystery and horror"
In spite of Franklin Roosevelt's efforts in his first term
of office, the Depression still grips the nation in 1937.
Prohibition has been repealed leaving the Chicago mob quiet
as they seek new sources of revenue. In that backdrop,
vampire Jack Fleming, who attains his sustenance by
drinking the blood of cows in the nearby stockyards, plans
to make something of himself. He is building a classy
nightclub, LADY CRYMSON, catering to the tastes of the
elite for fine wine, food, and entertainment. His efforts hit a snag when the construction crew finds a
body hidden in the basement behind a wall. The remains is
at least five years old with a horrified Jack wondering who
could have so cruelly walled the victim inside that death
prison? Jack, a reporter in his previous life and
currently a partner with a detective, begins to
investigate. With the help of his mortal girl friend, he
starts with the dress leading to its designer, which in
turn sends the duo to Jack's landlord, a powerful mob
boss. However, Jack seems no closer as the road continues
to twist and wind. The latest vampire Tales, LADY CRYMSON, is a delightful mix
of mystery and horror with characters speaking the
vernacular of a 1930's gangster in a way that would make
Cagney proud. The select people who know what species Jack
is treat him with respect and friendship that allows the
audience to forget he is a vampire. That augments the feel
of an authentic environment and adds to Jack's appeal.
P.N. Elrod has written another great novel containing a
well designed whodunit with a pinch of horror elements to
spice up the plot. (review of the original hardcover release - Nov. 2000)
Harriet Klausner / November, 2000
Copyright © 2000 for Paranormal Romance Reviews
Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted April 14, 2003
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