Fairstein always does a marvelous job with the history of New York's buildings and institutions, and as usual the historical parts are fascinating
The iconic Grand Central Terminal gets the most historic detail, and indeed, it is a remarkable structure with a compelling history. Also interesting, the historic information about the Waldorf-Astoria and the (no longer in existence)Biltmore Hotel.
On the other hand, I found the mystery aspect of this one slow, dependent on coincidence, and concocted mainly to connect it with Grand Central Terminal.
I usually like Mike Chapman, but this time he was annoying and his typical repartee felt too caustic and too forced. Is that just me? Did anyone else want back-hand him after some of his "clever" remarks? Maybe I've just been reading this series for too long.
What would make a fascinating book is one that covers all of the historic sites that Fairstein has included in her novels. The historic element has long been a draw in her novels for many readers; unfortunately, it was about the only draw in this one for me.
NetGalley/Penguin Group/Dutton
Crime/Police Procedural. June 17, 2014. Print length: 384 pages.
I thought this series got a bit 'all the same' a while back so I've had a big break from it. How much trouble can one woman get into? But I do miss the settings - she makes NY seem very vivid.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I have not enjoyed the latest books much, except for the New York history.
ReplyDeleteI liked this one better than you did, I think, but my complaint was similar. My favorite part of these books is the historical element and while I liked it here on one hand, on the other, I felt as if the story itself was sacrificed to get everything in.
ReplyDelete(My review is scheduled to go up next week.)
I know she's always enjoyed her alcohol, but did you notice how much Alex drank in this novel? Maybe it is just me, but it seemed excessive at times.
ReplyDeleteYou are right! Thinking back, there is a difference in the way it is presented. You may have figured out the complication for the next novel, Wendy!
ReplyDelete