Review: Murder at Bent Elbow

Murder at Bent Elbow
Kate Bryan
Class/Genre: Mystery Historical Private Investigator
Series: Maggie McGuire # 1
Berkely Prime Crime; 1998; $5.99; pp 220

This is the first in a new historical series featuring 30ish Maggie Maguire, a former Pinkerton agent, raised in a traveling carnival which explains a wide range of unusual talents that show up throughout the story and allow the willing suspension of disbelief on some pretty absurd activities.

She sets up her own business in San Francisco with a male cousin, a dandified rogue named Grady. The first case (circa 1883) involves finding the heir to a large estate, a woman who had been captured by Indians as a child but there are a long series of obstacles, many hilarious, to be overcome.

Wow! From the first paragraph, this story was so much fun. The characters, even the minor ones are vibrant. The word pictures of the action and the surrounding environment are so real you're sure you've actually witnessed what she's describing. And indeed anyone who has enjoyed the comedy westerns of TV and film, a couple decades back probably have. Her writing style is very reminiscent of the silly westerns and comedy episodes of series westerns of bygone days such as Wild Wild West, Maverick, Support Your Local Gunfighter/Sheriff, Bonanza etc. I could even hear the theme music from these films playing through my head as I read parts of this book.

I wouldn't say this book necessarily fits the "formula" of a cozy. There are no cats, she doesn't drink tea, no knitting, and the language is relatively "clean" etc. although the heiress turns out to be working as a prostitute which isn't a spoiler. And the modern angst ridden personal romance element is missing although there is a promise a romance may show up in future books. There are plenty of bodies and an Indian massacre. But I can't imagine anyone who restricts their reading to cozies finding this book a turnoff. There is no graphic violence, or gratuitous sex. Anyone with a preference for any genre, who appreciates humor, should find this a great read. The plot which appears pretty straightforward does offer some unexpected twists and surprises.

The only thing I didn't like about this book was that I discovered Bryan at the beginning of her career so I can't rush out and pick up 12 more of her books immediately. From the first page of this book, I knew Bryan was going to be on my 10 favorite authors list. Make it a point to find this book. If only to read the closing chapter which is even more fun than the first.

Book Review: Murder at Bent Elbow