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In a Strange City
Laura Lippman
Orion £9.99 tbo
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Reviewed by Heather O'Donaghue |
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Laura Lippman's latest
Tess Monaghan mystery is a homage to the city she loves -
Baltimore. Whether you are a fan of the series or a first time
reader, Lippman draws you into the times and life of Tess, and
celebrates the father of the modern crime novel, Edger Allan
Poe. Beginning with the annual visit of the "Poe Toaster"
who brings a tribute to Poe's tomb to commemorate his birthday,
Lippman weaves a contemporary mystery that brings Baltimore
centre stage and delves anew into the mysteries surrounding Poe
himself.
Lippman's obvious love of literature seeps
through the novel with references and nods to old favourites.
Her trademark humour and fondness for the city of Baltimore just
about gives the reader a post card with the words "Wish you
where here" written on them. Building on her previous five
Tess Monoghan mysteries, Lippman comfortably returns to
characters that have grown with the series.
Tess as a main character is very appealing
and quite original. She manages to stand out from the crowd of
female PI's, becoming a three dimensional character with all the
usual irritating human qualities. The plot is original with a
deceptively tranquil pace, that leaves the reader surprised that
the book is at an end. Lippman is clear and convincing making
the book an interesting read. However, the best aspect of
Lippman's writing is her natural observation of everyday life
and foibles of the city, the people and the culture that is
Baltimore. Finishing the book is like coming back from a holiday
with the aroma of fresh coffee from the Paper Moon Diner still
in the air.
I would recommend going back to the
beginning and starting out with Tess Monaghan in Baltimore
Blues and building towards In a Strange City. A
series is always a at its best once the reader has gotten to
know the characters and are able to see that extra layer of
dramatic tension in the proceedings. And with this sixth novel,
Lippman provides a compulsive and and beautifully realised
instalment in the life and investigations of ex-journalist Tess
Monaghan.
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