What do you think?
Rate this book
A Molly Malone Mystery #1
Deadly Politics
A gripping new mystery from New York Times bestselling author Maggie Sefton Molly Malone was driven from Washington, D.C., by political back-stabbing, scandals, and personal heartbreak. But now she’s starting a new life in the one place she swore she’d never come back to. When Molly’s only Washington job prospect falls through, her politico niece, Karen, sets her up with a position in the office of a freshman senator. As the former wife of a congressman, Molly is alarmed to hear that Karen is having an affair with her boss, congressional chief of staff Jed Molinoff. Just days later, Molly finds Karen shot to death. Discovering that Molinoff has ransacked Karen’s apartment, Molly investigates further . . . and finds herself in the crosshairs of a shadowy political group that’s killing anyone who gets in its way. "Sefton entertains while providing an unnerving behind-the-scenes view of D.C. politics, where power and politics can make a lethal combination."― The Free Lance-Star "Maggie Sefton's foray into political intrigue is a marvelous look at the shady underbelly of insider Washington...A tightly plotted tale of treachery."― Mystery Scene Magazine "Sefton has a sharp ear for dialog and knack for writing strong female characters that serve her well as she ventures into suspense."― Library Journal "Welcome to Molly Malone's Washington…where parties and power go hand in hand with mystery and murder."―Brian Freeman, author of Spilled Blood
275 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
455 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Sefton
35 books779 followersAka Margaret Conlan
From author website:
"First, a little biographical information as introduction: Born in Richmond, VA, I grew up in Northern Virginia in Arlington, close to Washington, D.C. I attended university and received a Bachelor's degree in English Literature & Journalism, married, and started my family there. All four of my daughters are grown and established in careers of their own and are literally scattered around the globe. I now reside in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with two very demanding dogs."
From author website:
"First, a little biographical information as introduction: Born in Richmond, VA, I grew up in Northern Virginia in Arlington, close to Washington, D.C. I attended university and received a Bachelor's degree in English Literature & Journalism, married, and started my family there. All four of my daughters are grown and established in careers of their own and are literally scattered around the globe. I now reside in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with two very demanding dogs."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 12, 2012
I haven't been enjoying Sefton's other series for a while, but decided to give this a try. Again, there's a caffeine- and running-addicted accountant, but Molly is older, more cynical, a political widow down on her luck who is forced to return to Washington to get a job. She signs on with a new Senator and things seem to be going well, until her niece, also a congressional staffer, is murdered. It looks like a mugging, but the reader knows (from chapter 1, so I don't consider this a spoiler) that there's a sinister, well-funded group with unknown aims behind everything that happens. The ending makes it clear that Molly will be meeting this group again. Since the last thing the country needs now is more paranoia, I doubt if I'll be looking for the second, or subsequent volumes, but who knows? Maybe a sinister group will manipulate me and force me to read them.
February 20, 2013
This was a total waste of time and money. Or, as Ms Sefton would write: Badly written. Characters unlikeable. Poorly plotted. Set up for sequel.
August 7, 2012
******I had the pleasure of meeting the author at BEA, she was an awesome storyteller when sharing about this book and how she got the idea. Her love of DC clearly came through and she shared little antidotes with us as she signed. I had already read and reviewed the book by time I met Mrs.Shefton at BEA, even though I liked her; I felt bad that my review wasn't favorable, so I took the time to re~read the printed galley hoping my feelings would change. They did and they didn't, maybe because I knew what was coming the second time, some of those idiosyncrasies didn't bother me as much, but the glaring ones still did. Even though this isn't my cup of tea, it still might be yours so, take a chance you might love it, to my like it.****
The premise of this book sounded amazing, a political thriller?? I thought "Well this is going to be awesome". I tried really hard to like this book, I mean really tried. I put it down & procrastinated in reading it, reading and finishing three other books before I even went back to this one; I just couldn't get into it; I almost didn't finish reading it. As I have said before I hate starting and not finishing books because then I begin to wonder about them and then I end up going back to read them. Nope not this time, I refused to be haunted by this book
I noticed a trend in the publishing world now that instead of one book they attempt to stretch it as much as possible and this is supposed to be a series, I really wanted more action, more things to happen, and maybe that's why this book felt so hard to read, you felt you were on the verge of something great happening but it didn't happen because it's going to be in the next book. I do have to say that the book did suck me in when i was reading, even if it was me yelling at the book as I read. I was really engaged in reading this one, to the point my sibling told me to put it down because I kept calling Molly names. LOL. While it's fun to read this way i did find that at the end I had mixed feelings. I wish to reread and see if my opinion changes but here it is as it stands right noe:
PROS:
Samantha, Molly's friend, she is a breathe of fresh air, she's witty and she has a great sense of humor, the scenes she is in makes the book a whole lot lighter.
The story actually flowed pretty well *except where stated in the cons*. The scenes were engaging and you got pulled into the story when reading.
The author clearly loves Washington and the surrounding areas, as her accurate discriptiob makes you feel as if you are there. (My family vacationed in DC and the surrounding area every summer since I was 9, so I know the places she was describing as only a true 'native' would understand,) This just endeared the story to me because it's taking place in one of my favorite cities.
The intrigue is there, yet the main character doesn't quite see it. It could have been a little more obvious to her which would have made it a little more interesting, as it stands right now she's completely clueless, despite the massive breadcrumbs leading her to the mystery.
CONS:
The narrator goes from being Molly to being in the third person so that you can see other scenes unfolding away from Molly to back to Molly with little to no preparation for such transiitions. It's choppy and it breaks the flow of the novel.
Molly really isn't a likable character, she is narrating the novel and we spend most of the time in her head, hearing her views on everything, she's very negative about a lot of things and it makes it hard to read the novel. We have almost no physical description of Molly herself, so there is almost no way to build the character in your head, she barely describes other characters, and throws new ones in with little to no introduction as to who or what they are.
Molly insists on being self deprecating, doing this in your head is one thing, doing this at a job interview?? No Bueno! You can't tell me that someone who has grown up in DC doesn't know how to do this. Molly likes to demure her political standing, and while that maybe okay to do once or twice, several times in one conversation?? Looks desperate; like she's fishing for compliments and wants people to tell her why she's great. How other characters described her doesn't quite mesh with the Molly that's being written.
The other characters aren't fleshed out much, even Molly isn't fleshed out at all, she keeps hinting at a past, yet she never really thinks about it or even share any of the information that would really explain her plain hatred of Washington D.C. Yes I understand her husband was taken from her here, but from what she describes compared to what was listed in the premise, they don't mash up. Until she shares the full past in flashback it's just her opinion and it doesn't give us a reason to side with her on her dislike for Washington.
Molly has a bit of a drinking problem, in just about every scene she's drinking some wine, which is always named, most people won't know or care about the names of the wine, *I was a bartender for years so I know and love most of the wines listed, but not everyone will * just say wine. Giving the name is just useless information.
Molly truly is dumber than a box of bricks, I'm sorry, if this is supposed to be a woman who was used to political backstabbing and threats, your niece shares her suspicions with you and then you find her dead, despite her having a fight with someone the first thing that you think of is 'some crackhead killed her" really??? Not hte person she just broke up with who fought with her, right before this, but some random crackhead?? Not someone who might want her to stop looking into the information she was telling you about, but some random stranger on the street?? Let me tell you why that doesn't wash as a mystery there are several logistical errors in this scene that anyone who has ever watched or read a murder mystery show or novel would spot. Number one being she's still in the car, if they are robbing her, the car is a major payday.
For someone who reads a lot of murder~mystery/suspense this book truly lacked the thrill I was seeking. It might be good for those who aren't used to the genre, however I gave it three stars, it's an okay novel, I might still check out the others to see if this one was simply slow because it was laying the groundwork for the others.
***I received this book as advanced copy in exchange for an honest review***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2018
I lost all patience with this book when the author had the main character refer to a friend as "Miss Thing" At that moment I realized how clumsy the dialogue was and how sloppily written the book was. I'd hoped the mystery would be wrapped up by the end of the book, but unfortunately I'm going to have to plow through other bad books to find any resolution. I'm not happy about that....
April 1, 2017
About a 2.5 star read and rounding up since she's a Colorado author. I got this in a giveaway on Facebook awhile back and finally got it read. The premise for the story was a pretty good one, but it just didn't seem to go anywhere for me. Never developed any feeling for Molly one way or the other, but was fascinated by the fact that she seemed to eat out ALL the time! Not really a good sign when that's probably the main thing you remember about the book. I know Ms. Sefton's knitting series is quite popular, but I've never read it. Maybe I'll give that series a shot one of these days, as I wouldn't read another in this series.
January 16, 2016
Molly Malone, the wife of a former congressman, returns to Washington D.C. to start over. She never thought she would return to the town full of backstabbing politicians and personal heartbreak but this is where her family is and she needs them now more than ever.
She thought she had a job all lined up but it fell through at the last minute. Her niece, Karen, works "on the hill", sets her up to interview with freshman senator tracking his budgets and finance and she takes the job. Karen and Maggie have always been close and now in Washington together they are thrilled to spend more time with each other. Molly is surprised to find out who Karen is having an affair with and when she is killed she a few days later Molly is afraid her death was not a random act of violence.
Molly can't help herself from doing a little investigating of her own but her inquires are drawing the attention of the wrong people. People that kill people that get in their way. This is not how Molly expected her new life in Washington to begin or end.
Warning this is not a cozy mystery. Maggie Sefton is showing the edgier side of her imagination in this new series and it is FANTASTIC!!! I honestly could not put this book down. Life stopped as I became totally immersed in this story.
Molly knows Washington D.C. can be a dangerous place but never thought it would come right to her workplace. She has been through so much but she is a strong woman and has been in and around politics her entire life. She knows the game and its players. She is smart, savvy, clever and determined. She is going to find out who killed her niece or die trying. Sefton has created a tough and gutsy protagonist that readers will quickly become invested in and want to see her succeed.
With Washington politics as a backdrop the possibilities for this series are endless. I am anxious to see all the characters evolve in future stories. From Molly's mom and her friends Deb and Nan, the senator's staff, to Molly love life, and all the politics this series has a very bright future! I definitely want more Molly Malone and more Deadly Politics.
She thought she had a job all lined up but it fell through at the last minute. Her niece, Karen, works "on the hill", sets her up to interview with freshman senator tracking his budgets and finance and she takes the job. Karen and Maggie have always been close and now in Washington together they are thrilled to spend more time with each other. Molly is surprised to find out who Karen is having an affair with and when she is killed she a few days later Molly is afraid her death was not a random act of violence.
Molly can't help herself from doing a little investigating of her own but her inquires are drawing the attention of the wrong people. People that kill people that get in their way. This is not how Molly expected her new life in Washington to begin or end.
Warning this is not a cozy mystery. Maggie Sefton is showing the edgier side of her imagination in this new series and it is FANTASTIC!!! I honestly could not put this book down. Life stopped as I became totally immersed in this story.
Molly knows Washington D.C. can be a dangerous place but never thought it would come right to her workplace. She has been through so much but she is a strong woman and has been in and around politics her entire life. She knows the game and its players. She is smart, savvy, clever and determined. She is going to find out who killed her niece or die trying. Sefton has created a tough and gutsy protagonist that readers will quickly become invested in and want to see her succeed.
With Washington politics as a backdrop the possibilities for this series are endless. I am anxious to see all the characters evolve in future stories. From Molly's mom and her friends Deb and Nan, the senator's staff, to Molly love life, and all the politics this series has a very bright future! I definitely want more Molly Malone and more Deadly Politics.
February 9, 2013
Molly Malone comes back to DC.
1. When Sefton has Molly involved in summing up dialog with characters (back story), Sefton never writes "and Molly explained what she'd discovered". The reader has to reread what was discovered even though we were there when she discovered it, AND we were there when she'd reported it word for word to two other characters before the one we are reading about now.
2. Molly and her male friend, Danny, eat out ALL the time. I should've counted all the places they ate in the spread of about four days. I'm curious to know.
3. At least, readers did not have to endure the detailed dress of each character. (Something I was surprised she did not use as a filler.)
Other than the above and that the mystery would've been OK had about 100 pages been cut, I liked the way she wrote. But I will not be reading another of her novels. Short story, yes; novel, no.
1. When Sefton has Molly involved in summing up dialog with characters (back story), Sefton never writes "and Molly explained what she'd discovered". The reader has to reread what was discovered even though we were there when she discovered it, AND we were there when she'd reported it word for word to two other characters before the one we are reading about now.
2. Molly and her male friend, Danny, eat out ALL the time. I should've counted all the places they ate in the spread of about four days. I'm curious to know.
3. At least, readers did not have to endure the detailed dress of each character. (Something I was surprised she did not use as a filler.)
Other than the above and that the mystery would've been OK had about 100 pages been cut, I liked the way she wrote. But I will not be reading another of her novels. Short story, yes; novel, no.
November 24, 2012
I continually return to this author because I want to like her books, but her writing style distracts from the story. Much of this book is the back-story on each character; so that the action does not move forward so much as stagnate. Another distraction is the over-use of similes. The awkward writing takes my attention away from what I had hoped would be an enjoyable read.
This is a promising series with an interesting premise as the widow of respected legislator returns to D.C. and the swirl of political drama. The author inserts life style details that lend a breath of authenticity to the events. Sorry to say, it was only an OK read for me.
This is a promising series with an interesting premise as the widow of respected legislator returns to D.C. and the swirl of political drama. The author inserts life style details that lend a breath of authenticity to the events. Sorry to say, it was only an OK read for me.
July 11, 2016
This is #1 in a Molly Malone Mystery.
Molly Malone returned to Washington, DC and finds herself working for a congressman when she thought she had left this all behind in Colorado. I enjoyed getting to know Molly and the people that she interacted with. The whole story takes place in the DC area and I did feel at times I was back there because she described some of the streets as I remember them.
It ended with me wanting to know what happens next, because I don't believe this story has ended.
I am giving this 5 out of 5 stars and look forward to reading the next one.
Molly Malone returned to Washington, DC and finds herself working for a congressman when she thought she had left this all behind in Colorado. I enjoyed getting to know Molly and the people that she interacted with. The whole story takes place in the DC area and I did feel at times I was back there because she described some of the streets as I remember them.
It ended with me wanting to know what happens next, because I don't believe this story has ended.
I am giving this 5 out of 5 stars and look forward to reading the next one.
July 25, 2012
This was so different that her knitting mysteries - thank goodness. I don't enjoy that series as much. My mom recommended I try this series and I really did enjoy it. I gave it 3 stars because the language doesn't flow very well for me and I didn't relate as well to her anger outbursts and the way she dealt with people. It was an interesting, although not a new idea, for a plot. I loved the Washington politics angle and found it fascinating to see how things worked.
August 26, 2012
I liked this book even though I'm suspicious of almost every character in it. As I got near the end, I thought that there would be no way for her to tie it all up - and I was right. I would have liked a little more of a complete ending but obviously, this is meant to be a series of books. I'll read the next one but hope it develops further.
February 20, 2013
A 2.5 really. Very unbelievable mystery.
November 19, 2012
First in the Molly Malone mystery suspense series featuring Molly, an accountant who wants nothing to do with the politics that destroyed her first husband's life. But ends up back in Washington D.C. to her horror!
I was conflicted as to whether to give this a "3" for the minimal tension/drama or a "4" for the twists Sefton has created and the warm characters whom I like. Since Goodreads and Amazon don't accept halfway measures, I'm choosing the "4", if only because there is a promise in this start to Sefton's Molly Malone Mystery series.
My Take
It's a combination of Memory Lane and the brutal ins and out of politics, with its need to schmooze and its desire to stab. And yet there's a warmth in this. Warm, caring characters. Including a politician who wants to do right...who knew!?? Oh, wait, I forgot. This is fiction. Sigh…Ah well, I'll take an honest politician wherever I can get him.
For all the politics Washington is known for, obviously, this story is more concerned with Washington social life and how it affects a politician's life.
Sefton is a bit obvious in her set up for the overall theme series, but she does well in leaving the reader [me!] in suspense. I want Molly to find the buggers behind this all and take them down. I also want to watch her relationships with Russell, Brewster, and ESPECIALLY Danny progress. Ooh-la-la… Or maybe it's all those lovely seafood meals…?
I got so hungry for oysters, crab, and shrimp reading about the meals Molly and Danny shared.
It was interesting that Sefton presents all these possibilities from Karen's Daytimer, her computer files and emails, and her dad's journals, but Molly doesn't investigate that. She's more concerned with listening to her intuition, but at least she's smart to enough to hold back for Casey and Danny.
The Story
Jeff Parker is one of many in D.C. and his latest real estate deal got yanked. He can't hire on Molly Malone no matter how much Deb threatens him. But it's all about the contacts, and Molly's niece, Karen Grayson, finds her a job. Admittedly, it's not at all the job she would consider, but, Patricia's bill comes the end of the month and Molly needs that money.
Molly does her best to throw the interview, but they want her too bad and throw in too many perks. It's a done deal and word quickly spreads. Including to some old friends.
It's a seemingly senseless murder that throws Molly's return to her old stomping grounds into a nightmare. Some poor choices on the part of many leads the bad guys to tidy up.
The Characters
Molly Malone was raised in Arlington while her father was a senator. She married David Grayson from Colorado who became a senator and, after the attacks that led to his death, she fled to Colorado with their daughters and swore never to return. Her mom is in a retirement center. And she gets to stay as long as Molly can pay for a personal companion, Patricia O'Toole. DD is too good to be true. Danny DiMateo, a.k.a., Damned Dangerous, is an old high school friend. He's been a career Marine since he enlisted in 1969 right out of high school. He retired five years ago and now works private security. And he's very interested in taking up his old friendship with Molly. He's an absolute rock.
Aunt Molly is Karen Grayson's only family. Karen's dad, Eric Grayson, took on David's senate seat when he died. Ten years after that, Eric and Cheryl, his wife, Karen's mother, died as well. I have lots of suspicions...) Now, Karen works for Congressman Jackson and Jed Molinoff is his chief of staff. Celeste Allard is a friend of Karen's from Jackson's office. She has some concerns.
Nan and Deb are Molly's cousins and oldest childhood friends. The ladies run a catering firm now—Babson Sisters, Entertaining by Design. Nan is married to Bill Anderson, an attorney; Deb is married to Mike Beringer. Samantha Suffolk is another old friend of Molly's. One who was the picture of political perfection until her second husband, Senator Beauregard Calhoun, died. Now she's making up for lost time.
John Russell is the new Independent senator from Colorado and he greatly admired Molly's dad. Peter Brewster is his brash chief of staff. Casey is a former Marine who now works security for Russell. Luisa is his housekeeper and her husband, Albert, is his driver.
Eleanor MacKenzie is a formidable woman in Washington social circles. Luckily she had taken Molly under her wing when she was still in high school. Senator Alan Baker and his wife Brenda are also old friends of the Malones. Aggie is a longtime server in Washington. She remembers serving at Molly's dad's parties and how much her dad loved her. Congressman Henry Baylor and his wife Mary are too innocent for Washington. Senator Sol Karpinsky is one of their victims and one of Samantha's special friends. Too strong and moral for what they want. Detective Schroeder of the Washington D.C. PD investigates.
The Bad Guys...
Raymond. Larry Fillmore is a smarmy, violent man who has been tossed from more offices for his bad behavior. Now, he's infiltrating Jackson's office. Congressman Edward Ryker is scum. Unfortunately, he's ironclad scum. Spencer. Senator Dunston, the new chairman of the Banking committee, replacing the recently deceased Karpinsky, is already deep in their debt. The Epsilon Group, a financial think tank, is mentioned a lot; they seem to be the bad guys. They certainly attract a lot of unsavory types.
The Cover
The cover is an interesting collage. At first glance, it appears sweet and peaceful. The cherry blossoms that proliferate in Washington D.C., that remind Molly of her first kiss, and the Capitol dome in the upper right, but underlying it are the shadows of a web, or is it cracked glass?, as well as that of a gun. I did like the patriotic border crossing under Sefton's name.
The title is too true and what Molly has feared for too long. In Washington D.C., it is Deadly Politics for anyone trying to survive in our nation's capitol.
I was conflicted as to whether to give this a "3" for the minimal tension/drama or a "4" for the twists Sefton has created and the warm characters whom I like. Since Goodreads and Amazon don't accept halfway measures, I'm choosing the "4", if only because there is a promise in this start to Sefton's Molly Malone Mystery series.
My Take
It's a combination of Memory Lane and the brutal ins and out of politics, with its need to schmooze and its desire to stab. And yet there's a warmth in this. Warm, caring characters. Including a politician who wants to do right...who knew!?? Oh, wait, I forgot. This is fiction. Sigh…Ah well, I'll take an honest politician wherever I can get him.
For all the politics Washington is known for, obviously, this story is more concerned with Washington social life and how it affects a politician's life.
Sefton is a bit obvious in her set up for the overall theme series, but she does well in leaving the reader [me!] in suspense. I want Molly to find the buggers behind this all and take them down. I also want to watch her relationships with Russell, Brewster, and ESPECIALLY Danny progress. Ooh-la-la… Or maybe it's all those lovely seafood meals…?
I got so hungry for oysters, crab, and shrimp reading about the meals Molly and Danny shared.
It was interesting that Sefton presents all these possibilities from Karen's Daytimer, her computer files and emails, and her dad's journals, but Molly doesn't investigate that. She's more concerned with listening to her intuition, but at least she's smart to enough to hold back for Casey and Danny.
The Story
Jeff Parker is one of many in D.C. and his latest real estate deal got yanked. He can't hire on Molly Malone no matter how much Deb threatens him. But it's all about the contacts, and Molly's niece, Karen Grayson, finds her a job. Admittedly, it's not at all the job she would consider, but, Patricia's bill comes the end of the month and Molly needs that money.
Molly does her best to throw the interview, but they want her too bad and throw in too many perks. It's a done deal and word quickly spreads. Including to some old friends.
It's a seemingly senseless murder that throws Molly's return to her old stomping grounds into a nightmare. Some poor choices on the part of many leads the bad guys to tidy up.
The Characters
Molly Malone was raised in Arlington while her father was a senator. She married David Grayson from Colorado who became a senator and, after the attacks that led to his death, she fled to Colorado with their daughters and swore never to return. Her mom is in a retirement center. And she gets to stay as long as Molly can pay for a personal companion, Patricia O'Toole. DD is too good to be true. Danny DiMateo, a.k.a., Damned Dangerous, is an old high school friend. He's been a career Marine since he enlisted in 1969 right out of high school. He retired five years ago and now works private security. And he's very interested in taking up his old friendship with Molly. He's an absolute rock.
Aunt Molly is Karen Grayson's only family. Karen's dad, Eric Grayson, took on David's senate seat when he died. Ten years after that, Eric and Cheryl, his wife, Karen's mother, died as well. I have lots of suspicions...) Now, Karen works for Congressman Jackson and Jed Molinoff is his chief of staff. Celeste Allard is a friend of Karen's from Jackson's office. She has some concerns.
Nan and Deb are Molly's cousins and oldest childhood friends. The ladies run a catering firm now—Babson Sisters, Entertaining by Design. Nan is married to Bill Anderson, an attorney; Deb is married to Mike Beringer. Samantha Suffolk is another old friend of Molly's. One who was the picture of political perfection until her second husband, Senator Beauregard Calhoun, died. Now she's making up for lost time.
John Russell is the new Independent senator from Colorado and he greatly admired Molly's dad. Peter Brewster is his brash chief of staff. Casey is a former Marine who now works security for Russell. Luisa is his housekeeper and her husband, Albert, is his driver.
Eleanor MacKenzie is a formidable woman in Washington social circles. Luckily she had taken Molly under her wing when she was still in high school. Senator Alan Baker and his wife Brenda are also old friends of the Malones. Aggie is a longtime server in Washington. She remembers serving at Molly's dad's parties and how much her dad loved her. Congressman Henry Baylor and his wife Mary are too innocent for Washington. Senator Sol Karpinsky is one of their victims and one of Samantha's special friends. Too strong and moral for what they want. Detective Schroeder of the Washington D.C. PD investigates.
The Bad Guys...
Raymond. Larry Fillmore is a smarmy, violent man who has been tossed from more offices for his bad behavior. Now, he's infiltrating Jackson's office. Congressman Edward Ryker is scum. Unfortunately, he's ironclad scum. Spencer. Senator Dunston, the new chairman of the Banking committee, replacing the recently deceased Karpinsky, is already deep in their debt. The Epsilon Group, a financial think tank, is mentioned a lot; they seem to be the bad guys. They certainly attract a lot of unsavory types.
The Cover
The cover is an interesting collage. At first glance, it appears sweet and peaceful. The cherry blossoms that proliferate in Washington D.C., that remind Molly of her first kiss, and the Capitol dome in the upper right, but underlying it are the shadows of a web, or is it cracked glass?, as well as that of a gun. I did like the patriotic border crossing under Sefton's name.
The title is too true and what Molly has feared for too long. In Washington D.C., it is Deadly Politics for anyone trying to survive in our nation's capitol.
July 10, 2018
Book was brought to my attention through the Cozy Mystery Book Club here on Goodreads. I had read several from Sefton's knitting series but didn't realize she had any other series.
I wasn't really anxious to read a political mystery but decided to take part in the club read. I'm so glad I did. Will be reading the rest of the series.
I wasn't really anxious to read a political mystery but decided to take part in the club read. I'm so glad I did. Will be reading the rest of the series.
May 21, 2017
Kept my attentions during read it in 3 days. Did not like the ending.
November 18, 2018
Excellent book, loved it fresh story that takes place in Denver and Dc. Great story loved it, cant wait to read the next 2.
February 1, 2019
I like this series better than the knitting series, and I love those. Wish there were more of this series.
January 5, 2022
This series is really great! Fun and easy read, but engrossing.
May 2, 2025
It is a very pleasant, light read about political scandal in D.C. but as a mystery it falls short. The who-done-it is still a mystery. Very unsatisfying.
November 30, 2013
Maggie Sefton is the New York Times bestselling author of Knitting Mystery series (Berkeley Prime Crime). Her debut knitting mystery, Knit One, Kill Two, was named an Agatha Award finalist in 2005. But Maggie has ventured into political suspense with a new series set in the treacherous waters of Washington D.C.
Ever since her late husband went through the emotional turmoil of D.C. that may have caused his death, Molly Mallone is jaded when it comes to Washington politics. Molly has moved back to D.C. out of necessity -- believing that she had a job in construction accounting. The job falls through within minutes of her landing in town. But her niece Karen Grayson works for Congressman Jackson and knows a Senator who needs an accountant. Before Molly can catch her breath, John Russell -- the new Independent Senator from Colorado, and Peter Brewster is his chief of staff have hired Molly.
Karen confides in Molly that she has had an affair with Congressman Jackson's chief of staff, Jed Molinoff. Karen is killed within hours of having a fight with Jed over breaking off the affair. Molly was to ride home with Karen and discovers her shot in her car. A work associate from Jackson's office, Celeste Allard, contacts Molly with suspicions about Jed's searching Karen's desk and computer plus other actions. Molly gathers clues with Karen's Day-timer, computer files, and emails with Celeste's aid. Some entries point to a political think tank that influences policy making in finance arenas. Molly is reunited with former friends and allies in the political scene that help her through her grieving, and give intel as she asks questions. In the midst of all this, Molly also reconnects with an old high school boyfriend, Danny DiMateo, who is retired from the military now.
There are sections told from a shadowy figure who seems to be behind Karen's murder, who even keeps track of Celeste and what she knows. There are no clues who this shadowy person manipulating events behind the scenes is throughout the story, even at the end. Clearly setting up this theme to continue into the next book.
The personality of Molly is a bit flat, although there is potential to give her more depth. I liked her okay, but with just a little more from the character I think I could have loved her. Danny DiMateo, dubbed DD for Damned Dangerous by his military cohorts, is the old high school friend who seems to pick up where he left off all those years ago with Molly. Samantha Suffolk is another old friend of Molly's who had married an older Senator who passed away, now she leads a bit of a scandalous life. I look forward to more of her in the next book as she could really be a key character adding lots of flavor. Eleanor MacKenzie is a formidable woman in Washington social circles who considers Molly a protegee. Eleanor is another I would like to see more of. Celeste Allard is a friend you want on your side. I like her character's bravery.
The Washington locale is utilized, but without any real evocative touches. The restaurants seem to be the most visceral of the setting. The story moved a little slowly getting started. Plus, obvious keys to Karen's death are never seriously considered after being uncovered. The author can't have just forgotten about them, so I am betting these will become more important in the next book. This strategy has its drawbacks because it leaves the book feeling open ended and the reader frustrated without any sense of completion on any level.
I appreciate the premise of this new series taking advantage of the brutal high stakes of politics and the schmoozing while stabbing allies and enemies in the back atmosphere. I also like the puppet-master behind legislation who is somehow involved in Karen's death. But the ending could have been handled better and still setup the next book. Give me some more depth to Molly and I could really be a fan of her.
Rating: Good - A fun read with minor flaws that has potential and room to improve.
Join me at Mysteries and My Musings book blog
http://www.mysterysuspence.blogspot.com/
Ever since her late husband went through the emotional turmoil of D.C. that may have caused his death, Molly Mallone is jaded when it comes to Washington politics. Molly has moved back to D.C. out of necessity -- believing that she had a job in construction accounting. The job falls through within minutes of her landing in town. But her niece Karen Grayson works for Congressman Jackson and knows a Senator who needs an accountant. Before Molly can catch her breath, John Russell -- the new Independent Senator from Colorado, and Peter Brewster is his chief of staff have hired Molly.
Karen confides in Molly that she has had an affair with Congressman Jackson's chief of staff, Jed Molinoff. Karen is killed within hours of having a fight with Jed over breaking off the affair. Molly was to ride home with Karen and discovers her shot in her car. A work associate from Jackson's office, Celeste Allard, contacts Molly with suspicions about Jed's searching Karen's desk and computer plus other actions. Molly gathers clues with Karen's Day-timer, computer files, and emails with Celeste's aid. Some entries point to a political think tank that influences policy making in finance arenas. Molly is reunited with former friends and allies in the political scene that help her through her grieving, and give intel as she asks questions. In the midst of all this, Molly also reconnects with an old high school boyfriend, Danny DiMateo, who is retired from the military now.
There are sections told from a shadowy figure who seems to be behind Karen's murder, who even keeps track of Celeste and what she knows. There are no clues who this shadowy person manipulating events behind the scenes is throughout the story, even at the end. Clearly setting up this theme to continue into the next book.
The personality of Molly is a bit flat, although there is potential to give her more depth. I liked her okay, but with just a little more from the character I think I could have loved her. Danny DiMateo, dubbed DD for Damned Dangerous by his military cohorts, is the old high school friend who seems to pick up where he left off all those years ago with Molly. Samantha Suffolk is another old friend of Molly's who had married an older Senator who passed away, now she leads a bit of a scandalous life. I look forward to more of her in the next book as she could really be a key character adding lots of flavor. Eleanor MacKenzie is a formidable woman in Washington social circles who considers Molly a protegee. Eleanor is another I would like to see more of. Celeste Allard is a friend you want on your side. I like her character's bravery.
The Washington locale is utilized, but without any real evocative touches. The restaurants seem to be the most visceral of the setting. The story moved a little slowly getting started. Plus, obvious keys to Karen's death are never seriously considered after being uncovered. The author can't have just forgotten about them, so I am betting these will become more important in the next book. This strategy has its drawbacks because it leaves the book feeling open ended and the reader frustrated without any sense of completion on any level.
I appreciate the premise of this new series taking advantage of the brutal high stakes of politics and the schmoozing while stabbing allies and enemies in the back atmosphere. I also like the puppet-master behind legislation who is somehow involved in Karen's death. But the ending could have been handled better and still setup the next book. Give me some more depth to Molly and I could really be a fan of her.
Rating: Good - A fun read with minor flaws that has potential and room to improve.
Join me at Mysteries and My Musings book blog
http://www.mysterysuspence.blogspot.com/
July 11, 2013
Deadly Politics is the first book in the Molly Malone Mystery series.
As with all of Maggie Sefton's books, I loved this new series. Certainly different from her Knitting series, but a wonderful change of pace, story wise.
Molly has decided to move back to D.C., so that she can be close to her mother who getting up in years. Upon arriving Molly soon learns that the job she thought she had, was no longer available. Molly is going to stay with a cousin until she can get relocated, but she now needs to find a job so she can get an apartment.
A few days later Karen, her niece, who works for a Congressman, comes over for dinner and tells Molly that Senator Russell is looking for an aide. Really politics is the last thing that Molly wants to be involved in, again. Her father had served as Senator for many years and her late husband had been a Congressman until his untimely suicide. They make Molly too good of an offer to refuse the offer.
In addition to planning function for the Senator and controlling the cost of them, see is able to be an extra set of eyes and ears for the Senator, at these function.
After one of the functions, Karen is a guest, and later is found murdered in her car, down the street from the Senator's. Still having friends in D.C., Molly starts to ask around for clues as to might have murdered her niece. She soon learns that Karen's murder goes deep into governments inner workings.
Sefton tells an exciting story of the behind the scenes working of the government. It wasn't until the end that I learned the killer's identity.
The characters are well developed and believable. This book makes you hope that politics aren't this bad. But, as a work of fiction it was very exciting.
Looking forward to the release of Poisoned Politics next month and hope that the series will go past the three books, presently in the works.
As with all of Maggie Sefton's books, I loved this new series. Certainly different from her Knitting series, but a wonderful change of pace, story wise.
Molly has decided to move back to D.C., so that she can be close to her mother who getting up in years. Upon arriving Molly soon learns that the job she thought she had, was no longer available. Molly is going to stay with a cousin until she can get relocated, but she now needs to find a job so she can get an apartment.
A few days later Karen, her niece, who works for a Congressman, comes over for dinner and tells Molly that Senator Russell is looking for an aide. Really politics is the last thing that Molly wants to be involved in, again. Her father had served as Senator for many years and her late husband had been a Congressman until his untimely suicide. They make Molly too good of an offer to refuse the offer.
In addition to planning function for the Senator and controlling the cost of them, see is able to be an extra set of eyes and ears for the Senator, at these function.
After one of the functions, Karen is a guest, and later is found murdered in her car, down the street from the Senator's. Still having friends in D.C., Molly starts to ask around for clues as to might have murdered her niece. She soon learns that Karen's murder goes deep into governments inner workings.
Sefton tells an exciting story of the behind the scenes working of the government. It wasn't until the end that I learned the killer's identity.
The characters are well developed and believable. This book makes you hope that politics aren't this bad. But, as a work of fiction it was very exciting.
Looking forward to the release of Poisoned Politics next month and hope that the series will go past the three books, presently in the works.
June 20, 2016
I only know Maggie Sefton from her books on knitting and Colorado ranching. I have read all of her knitting books except the newest one which I just received for Mother's Day.
This book introduced us to Molly Malone, the widowed wife of a Colorado congressman and the daughter of a deceased well loved Senator from Colorado. Once widowed and once divorced, she is not looking for a new man in her life right at the moment.
Her Mom is in a high priced retirement home in Virginia where Molly grew up and said after she lost her first husband she would not return to Washington life again. But after losing her job in Colorado and having no where else to go, she decides to go home to stay with her "family" two cousins and their families, and to be near her Mom.
She has a job interview lined up with a real estate office which is what she was doing in Colorado, but she finds out before she gets to the interview that it has fallen through. She now has nothing to look forward to.
But in comes her niece, Karen with a job for her in the office of a Senator from Colorado who needs an accountant and needs Molly! She gets hired on the spot and falls into the position like it was made for her.
Everything is going along fine until, Karen is found dead in her car outside the Senator's house during a state dinner. Molly is ready to do what she needs to do to find the killer.
She goes to extremes and helps the police and in the meantime finds an old high school love interest and it looks like she will be falling in love again. I can't wait for the next book, which I have started already to find out if they will be a couple.
Great read and I'm sure I will finish all these books also.
This book introduced us to Molly Malone, the widowed wife of a Colorado congressman and the daughter of a deceased well loved Senator from Colorado. Once widowed and once divorced, she is not looking for a new man in her life right at the moment.
Her Mom is in a high priced retirement home in Virginia where Molly grew up and said after she lost her first husband she would not return to Washington life again. But after losing her job in Colorado and having no where else to go, she decides to go home to stay with her "family" two cousins and their families, and to be near her Mom.
She has a job interview lined up with a real estate office which is what she was doing in Colorado, but she finds out before she gets to the interview that it has fallen through. She now has nothing to look forward to.
But in comes her niece, Karen with a job for her in the office of a Senator from Colorado who needs an accountant and needs Molly! She gets hired on the spot and falls into the position like it was made for her.
Everything is going along fine until, Karen is found dead in her car outside the Senator's house during a state dinner. Molly is ready to do what she needs to do to find the killer.
She goes to extremes and helps the police and in the meantime finds an old high school love interest and it looks like she will be falling in love again. I can't wait for the next book, which I have started already to find out if they will be a couple.
Great read and I'm sure I will finish all these books also.
May 15, 2012
I really enjoyed DEADLY POLITICS by Maggie Sefton. This book kept my interest throughout and left me wanting more. Hurry with the second book in the MOLLY MALONE SERIES. Molly Malone has been in the Washington DC area before. She has come back again to start anew. She left to start anew. Molly lost her first husband to suicide because as a senator he tried too hard to do the right thing while so many others wanted to do the wrong thing. Molly ran to Colorado, her husband's home state to start anew and remove herself from politics. But now she is back into the political scene. Can she continue to uphold the morals her husband fought for so long ago. Molly's niece helps her find a job for Senator Russell. Molly really doesn't want back into politics but she needs a way to pay her mother's nursing home bills. Molly's niece is having an affair with a married chief of staff but when she tries to break it up she is murdered. The police think it is a random mugging but when her niece's office friend is also killed Molly becomes suspicious. Molly may have gotten herself into a dastardly plot. Will she get murdered also? I want to find out but the next book is not out yet.
July 14, 2012
Molly Malone has returned to Washington, D.C. in order to pursue her accounting career for a developer. Upon reaching the tarmac, she finds out that her job prospect has fizzled but her niece, Karen finds her a new one with the Freshman Senator from Colorado, John Russell.
The job seems custom made to Molly who had been married to a Congressman, prior his untimely death decades earlier. Then horror strikes again...Karen is murdered while sitting in her car at a reception held by Senator Russell. Can lightning strike twice? Molly is determined to find Karen's murderer.
Luckily Molly reconnects with prior friends and colleagues. Can they be trusted to help her or has Molly wandered into a political pot of fire. Just why was Karen killed? What is the real plot behind the scenes.
In this debut political thriller, Ms. Sefton has drawn characters that are very credible and placed in extremely realistic settings and story plots. I look forward to more adventures with Molly Malone.
The job seems custom made to Molly who had been married to a Congressman, prior his untimely death decades earlier. Then horror strikes again...Karen is murdered while sitting in her car at a reception held by Senator Russell. Can lightning strike twice? Molly is determined to find Karen's murderer.
Luckily Molly reconnects with prior friends and colleagues. Can they be trusted to help her or has Molly wandered into a political pot of fire. Just why was Karen killed? What is the real plot behind the scenes.
In this debut political thriller, Ms. Sefton has drawn characters that are very credible and placed in extremely realistic settings and story plots. I look forward to more adventures with Molly Malone.
February 3, 2016
I liked this book more than Sefton's knitting mysteries. The characters were more distinct, and the detective was more active. I loved the descriptions of physical Washington DC, especially Georgetown. It really reminded me of my trips to Washington. I think, however, the main character, Molly, is a little too good to be true. I think the author fell into the trap telling, not showing. Lots of other characters raved about Molly's political skills, but I don't think we saw them enough. Her love interest is similarly unrealistic. I did like that at least one element of the mystery relates to a somewhat realistic policy issue; not a completely vague or totally safe issue.
October 14, 2012
It is sad for me to say (because I love Maggie Sefton's writing so much) that I did not enjoy this book as much as I hoped. I am not a political person however, and I am sore that is part of it .. I did really enjoy the characters :). but was displeased with who the murder victims were since i feel they were too close to the main character and were very likable characters :(
I also felt cheated out of the ending which I can not say why without ruining it for others..
Will I read more of the series? Probably.. But only because I have always loved this authors previous books so much.
I also felt cheated out of the ending which I can not say why without ruining it for others..
Will I read more of the series? Probably.. But only because I have always loved this authors previous books so much.
August 30, 2012
Sefton takes us behind-the-scenes of Washington D.C.’s political machinery in such a realistic way I suspect the author has insider information and connections. She has created a powerhouse of a sleuth in Molly Malone, a woman with a scarred past, who takes a risk by returning to D.C. to face the ghosts that torment her. Brimming with suspense and atmosphere, the cast of vivid characters kept me glued to the pages. But it’s Molly Malone who really steals the show. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series!
September 16, 2012
Promising. After the latest in the Lambspun
series, which I found a bit jaded, this was refreshing. The writing flowed better and the suspense was sustained. The sinister conspiracy undertones were very Patricia Highsmith- and set up for a series.
While the characters were engaging and superficially believable, there was a disjunction between their adaptation to the seemingly random violence and death of close relatives and friends and apparent long term anger at past losses.
I hope the series develops, rather than shies away from, complexity and depth.
series, which I found a bit jaded, this was refreshing. The writing flowed better and the suspense was sustained. The sinister conspiracy undertones were very Patricia Highsmith- and set up for a series.
While the characters were engaging and superficially believable, there was a disjunction between their adaptation to the seemingly random violence and death of close relatives and friends and apparent long term anger at past losses.
I hope the series develops, rather than shies away from, complexity and depth.
July 25, 2015
Okay read. It seemed like they were drinking wine in every chapter - and then switched to coffee at the end. An awful lot of time was spent drinking alcoholic beverages which is fine but it got overdone.
This was a re-read for me and at the end I remember why I didn't continue with the series -- the author did that annoying bid to try to be sure you buy the next book - there was NO conclusion. Molly did make a somewhat appealing alcoholic though.
This was a re-read for me and at the end I remember why I didn't continue with the series -- the author did that annoying bid to try to be sure you buy the next book - there was NO conclusion. Molly did make a somewhat appealing alcoholic though.
August 29, 2012
This is book 1 in a new series by Sefton but I didn't enjoy it as much as her Knitting Mystery series. This series is darker, with Washington and politics at its core. There were a few light hearted moments but they were rare. There were too many bodies that were easy for the reader to connect but not the characters in the story. I look forward to reading book 2 to see if there's better plot and character development and if Sefton gets back her groove.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews