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Micky Knight #1
Death by the Riverside
Among the moss-covered trees and wrought-iron balustrades of southern Louisiana, Detective Michele Knight (Micky to her friends) takes on the seemingly simple job of shooting a few photos for a client, but the going gets rough as Micky finds herself slugging through thugs and slogging through swamps in an attempt to expose a dangerous drug ring. The trail leads to the Hundred Oaks Plantation, a transvestite named Eddie, a beautiful doctor named Cordelia, and memories Micky thought she had buried twenty years ago.
Hard-hitting prose in the style of Sam Spade and Mike Hammer with a lesbian twist.
The First Micky Knight Mystery
Hard-hitting prose in the style of Sam Spade and Mike Hammer with a lesbian twist.
The First Micky Knight Mystery
256 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1990
63 people are currently reading
2240 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Redmann
28 books202 followersAlso writes under the pseudonym R. Jean Reid.
Jean Marie Redmann is an American novelist best known for her mystery series featuring New Orleans private investigator Micky Knight.
Main themes of Redmann's novels are the protagonist's troubled childhood and how it affects her adult life, discrimination based on sexual orientation and alcoholism. Her novels follow the tradition of hardboiled fiction. Redmann's third book The Intersection of Law and Desire won the Lambda Literary Award for lesbian mystery.
Jean M. Redmann is a gay rights activist and works as the Director of Prevention at NO/AIDS Task Force.
Jean Marie Redmann is an American novelist best known for her mystery series featuring New Orleans private investigator Micky Knight.
Main themes of Redmann's novels are the protagonist's troubled childhood and how it affects her adult life, discrimination based on sexual orientation and alcoholism. Her novels follow the tradition of hardboiled fiction. Redmann's third book The Intersection of Law and Desire won the Lambda Literary Award for lesbian mystery.
Jean M. Redmann is a gay rights activist and works as the Director of Prevention at NO/AIDS Task Force.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
June 21, 2025
“Holy swamp monster, batman!” Consider me floored. Death by the Riverside (Micky Knight #1) was one hell of an introduction to the Micky Knight series. J.M. Redmann, why haven’t I read you sooner?
My Fall Back Friday choice (thanks Bethany!) was first published in 1990 but apart from no tech, it has remained as fresh as it was 29 years ago. The tech is usually what dates it There are no computers and mobile phones. Micky mourns the demise of her stereo set at the hands of some bad guys and uses pay phones when she’s on the road. No GPS either and it is sorely missed when it comes to some of the scenes in this book. It is so much easier nowadays to pinpoint someone’s location.
Main themes of Redmann's novels are the protagonist's troubled childhood and how it affects her adult life, discrimination based on sexual orientation and alcoholism. Her novels follow the tradition of hardboiled fiction.
And hardboiled it is. People get hurt, they die, they fuck, they drink hard, they don’t always make wise decisions and I love all of it. I did not anticipate the explicit sex scenes but they did fit and I was glad Redmann chose to go that route. A bit of sugar to soften all that grit. My character crush was doctor Cordelia James.
Great character building, fantastic plot and pacing. I could not put it down so of course I highly recommend it. Better hold on to your hats!!
f/f explicit
Themes: New Orleans, sins from the past, oh Micky, Hepplewhite is a star, One Hundred Oaks Plantation, that green food coloring on the dildo scene was wicked, knowing that the author is still writing in this series makes me very happy.
5 stars
----------update 2nd read------------
I suddenly had a longing to start reading this series again. The epic love between Micky and Cordelia and how it all started (Mickey's demons included). They have a special place in my heart <3
Still 5 stars
-------------update 3rd re-read-----------
This book is 35 (!) years old and it hasn't lost any of it's magic. Thank you, J.M. Redmann for your continuing dedication to this cast of characters. They are very dear to me.
Always 5 Stars
My Fall Back Friday choice (thanks Bethany!) was first published in 1990 but apart from no tech, it has remained as fresh as it was 29 years ago. The tech is usually what dates it There are no computers and mobile phones. Micky mourns the demise of her stereo set at the hands of some bad guys and uses pay phones when she’s on the road. No GPS either and it is sorely missed when it comes to some of the scenes in this book. It is so much easier nowadays to pinpoint someone’s location.
Main themes of Redmann's novels are the protagonist's troubled childhood and how it affects her adult life, discrimination based on sexual orientation and alcoholism. Her novels follow the tradition of hardboiled fiction.
And hardboiled it is. People get hurt, they die, they fuck, they drink hard, they don’t always make wise decisions and I love all of it. I did not anticipate the explicit sex scenes but they did fit and I was glad Redmann chose to go that route. A bit of sugar to soften all that grit. My character crush was doctor Cordelia James.
Great character building, fantastic plot and pacing. I could not put it down so of course I highly recommend it. Better hold on to your hats!!
f/f explicit
Themes: New Orleans, sins from the past, oh Micky, Hepplewhite is a star, One Hundred Oaks Plantation, that green food coloring on the dildo scene was wicked, knowing that the author is still writing in this series makes me very happy.
5 stars
----------update 2nd read------------
I suddenly had a longing to start reading this series again. The epic love between Micky and Cordelia and how it all started (Mickey's demons included). They have a special place in my heart <3
Still 5 stars
-------------update 3rd re-read-----------
This book is 35 (!) years old and it hasn't lost any of it's magic. Thank you, J.M. Redmann for your continuing dedication to this cast of characters. They are very dear to me.
Always 5 Stars
April 22, 2016
This was wonderfully written. Wow quite a ride! I have heard good things about this series. One friend told me Redmann writes the lesbian mystery equivalent of Sue Grafton. I can see it, Mickey is that hard-nosed private eye, like Kinsey. Both authors write beautifully. I was so immersed in this book, I felt like I was right there in Louisiana.
It's funny, at first I didn't think I was going to like Mickey. She drinks too much, sleeps around, can be crappy to her friends... but as the book continues, Mickey grows on you like a fungus, and you are powerless to do anything but believe in and root for her.
This is an oldie, but a goodie and anyone who can enjoy a good mystery/crime/police/thriller, don't pass this up! I will eagerly be reading as many books in this series that I can get my hands on.
It's funny, at first I didn't think I was going to like Mickey. She drinks too much, sleeps around, can be crappy to her friends... but as the book continues, Mickey grows on you like a fungus, and you are powerless to do anything but believe in and root for her.
This is an oldie, but a goodie and anyone who can enjoy a good mystery/crime/police/thriller, don't pass this up! I will eagerly be reading as many books in this series that I can get my hands on.
June 8, 2019
Brooding, a$$hol3, quarter /half /3 quarter /1 night stander leads are not my type so I was reluctant to read this in the first place but Scribd has Book 1 - Book 8 and if I don't like it then I can just chuck it and move on without crying me a river over 5 dollars. Right after finishing it, I bought the book from BSB.
Private Detective Michele Knight - Micky, I have never come across this kind of character before. Maybe I'm still a Lesfic virgin (Nope, I lost it to Amanda Clover a few books ago) but Micky is truly special.
- Brooding, hell no. The things that come out of her mouth are 77.7% hilarious even during tense and dangerous scenes.
Facing a murder charge ⬇️
Micky: But he was shot with a .38 and my gun is a .45
Officer: How did you know ?
Micky: Oh, women's intuition.
- A$$h0l€, only to herself (with legit reasons) and to crooks.
-Sexy Times Fan, hell yes! She gives as much as she takes and in this One scene (Perhaps I'm not that familiar with wlw sex scenes) but Micky and she who shall not be named talked about what they wanted to do to each other as they were doing it... Bloody hot!
-Smooth Operator, move over Sade!
"Perhaps I could find some lovely lesbian and
impress her with my 13.O5 in my checking
account "
" Retirement usually means floating downstream "
- The crime / thriller elements were exceptionally written as well, Ms.Redmann managed to increase my suspense level to an alarming rate a few times. She must belong in the same "Let's torture our leads" group with Cari Hunter.
Amazing secondary characters, they were loyal to Micky and vise versa. Some of them were given backstories so plenty of emotional moments that hit me quite hard because I was invested not only in Micky but her merry friends and a few others.
Authors who are planning to write a series should take lessons from Ms.Redmann, this woman can write!
Thank you, Lex. You started the book chain, once again.
Lex - Bathany - Corrie - 😈 - Pretty please with whatever toppings you want on top, YOU.
Private Detective Michele Knight - Micky, I have never come across this kind of character before. Maybe I'm still a Lesfic virgin (Nope, I lost it to Amanda Clover a few books ago) but Micky is truly special.
- Brooding, hell no. The things that come out of her mouth are 77.7% hilarious even during tense and dangerous scenes.
Facing a murder charge ⬇️
Micky: But he was shot with a .38 and my gun is a .45
Officer: How did you know ?
Micky: Oh, women's intuition.
- A$$h0l€, only to herself (with legit reasons) and to crooks.
-Sexy Times Fan, hell yes! She gives as much as she takes and in this One scene (Perhaps I'm not that familiar with wlw sex scenes) but Micky and she who shall not be named talked about what they wanted to do to each other as they were doing it... Bloody hot!
-Smooth Operator, move over Sade!
"Perhaps I could find some lovely lesbian and
impress her with my 13.O5 in my checking
account "
" Retirement usually means floating downstream "
- The crime / thriller elements were exceptionally written as well, Ms.Redmann managed to increase my suspense level to an alarming rate a few times. She must belong in the same "Let's torture our leads" group with Cari Hunter.
Amazing secondary characters, they were loyal to Micky and vise versa. Some of them were given backstories so plenty of emotional moments that hit me quite hard because I was invested not only in Micky but her merry friends and a few others.
Authors who are planning to write a series should take lessons from Ms.Redmann, this woman can write!
Thank you, Lex. You started the book chain, once again.
Lex - Bathany - Corrie - 😈 - Pretty please with whatever toppings you want on top, YOU.
February 18, 2020
I get what all the fuss was about now.
The plot. Detective Micky Knight gets herself into trouble as she unintentionally becomes the target of New Orleans' crime & drug lords. With mounting threats coming in from seemingly all directions Micky has to fight to keep herself and her loved ones alive while coming to terms with her traumatic past.
The characters.* With half a dozen secondary characters and roughly the same amount with smaller roles, this book has quite an interesting ensemble of people from all walks of life. Every one of them had their own roles to play that was intricately woven into the narrative and made this book the fantastic page turner it is.
The writing. Superbly written, this action packed and full of suspense story had me reading well into the night. It has a fantastic balance of being heart wrenching while also offering much needed levity in the form of Micky's often hilarious one liners.
The special. It really is all about Micky isn't it? How is it possible to like a character with such an unlikable personality? And not just like her, but love and root for her happiness. Hats off to your brilliant writing Ms. Redmann!
The negative. As much as I love and adore Micky, I lost count of the amount of times I wanted to bash her over the head with those liquor bottles she likes to cling to. She makes it so hard to like her sometimes but at the same time your heart breaks for this woman with a wounded soul.
The verdict. After being introduced to Micky I now know the answer to the question: "If John McClane & Axel Foley had a love child, who would that person be?"
*Micky's resume:
Summary: Nancy Drew wishes she was as cool as me.
Edu.: Barnard College, NYC - Means streets of Naw Lins.
Skills: 2 forms of martial arts. 1 form of crab cleaning.
Languages: English, Snark, Sarcasm and Lesbian.™
Hobbies: Lesbians, Classical Music, Drinking like a fish.
About me: Whenever I walk past a liquor store all the bottles start shaking in their boots.
The plot. Detective Micky Knight gets herself into trouble as she unintentionally becomes the target of New Orleans' crime & drug lords. With mounting threats coming in from seemingly all directions Micky has to fight to keep herself and her loved ones alive while coming to terms with her traumatic past.
The characters.* With half a dozen secondary characters and roughly the same amount with smaller roles, this book has quite an interesting ensemble of people from all walks of life. Every one of them had their own roles to play that was intricately woven into the narrative and made this book the fantastic page turner it is.
The writing. Superbly written, this action packed and full of suspense story had me reading well into the night. It has a fantastic balance of being heart wrenching while also offering much needed levity in the form of Micky's often hilarious one liners.
The special. It really is all about Micky isn't it? How is it possible to like a character with such an unlikable personality? And not just like her, but love and root for her happiness. Hats off to your brilliant writing Ms. Redmann!
The negative. As much as I love and adore Micky, I lost count of the amount of times I wanted to bash her over the head with those liquor bottles she likes to cling to. She makes it so hard to like her sometimes but at the same time your heart breaks for this woman with a wounded soul.
The verdict. After being introduced to Micky I now know the answer to the question: "If John McClane & Axel Foley had a love child, who would that person be?"
*Micky's resume:
Summary: Nancy Drew wishes she was as cool as me.
Edu.: Barnard College, NYC - Means streets of Naw Lins.
Skills: 2 forms of martial arts. 1 form of crab cleaning.
Languages: English, Snark, Sarcasm and Lesbian.™
Hobbies: Lesbians, Classical Music, Drinking like a fish.
About me: Whenever I walk past a liquor store all the bottles start shaking in their boots.
February 18, 2020
I’ve told this story umpteen times so pardon if you’ve heard it before. I stumbled onto old detective stories when I was only 10 years old. No, not the classic Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie volumes or even the Dashiell Hammett noir. The books I fell into were musty paperbacks from the uk, bought for a buck fifty from the local Woolworth. I’m sure I was too young for the tawdry tales of disgraced men in rumpled suits searching for their next whiskey and the willing women that seemed to always go with it. Too young to comprehend the desperation and futility of simple lives gone wrong. What I do remember is that these stories fueled my imagination in a devilish way. Even if they weren’t the best written books.
Many decades later, my GR friends kept mentioning Micky Knight and describing a character that sounded remotely familiar. A private detective who drinks herself into oblivion trying to dodge familial ghosts. A lost soul who succeeds in wrangling out of every woman’s grasp who is trying to save her. A woman with a whip-smart, complex mind who plays dangerous people like somebody juggling axes and torches. Ahh, I had found my childhood books again. Only this book is incredibly well written, fast paced, and has a female detective that’ll have you simultaneously cheering for her and wanting to also thrash her irreverent self.
No synopsis here because the blurb and other reviews are clear. All I want to say is that I highly recommend this book and I am so happy that I have 9 more Micky books to read. Thanks, Lex. Finally, right?
Many decades later, my GR friends kept mentioning Micky Knight and describing a character that sounded remotely familiar. A private detective who drinks herself into oblivion trying to dodge familial ghosts. A lost soul who succeeds in wrangling out of every woman’s grasp who is trying to save her. A woman with a whip-smart, complex mind who plays dangerous people like somebody juggling axes and torches. Ahh, I had found my childhood books again. Only this book is incredibly well written, fast paced, and has a female detective that’ll have you simultaneously cheering for her and wanting to also thrash her irreverent self.
No synopsis here because the blurb and other reviews are clear. All I want to say is that I highly recommend this book and I am so happy that I have 9 more Micky books to read. Thanks, Lex. Finally, right?
February 14, 2017
I had not planned to start this book almost exactly 3 years after I first read it. A trick of fate, in a way, had me start the reread on February 13 2017. I had started reading the book the first time February 12 2014 – and ended it on the same day, different year (February 14 2014 vs. February 14 2017). Weird how things like that can happen.
I initially rated this book something near 3.75 out of 5.00. It’s been three years, but I’ve a vague idea why – all that sex. Coming from a history of reading Robert B. Parker, Dick Francis, Lillian Jackson Braun, Agatha Christie, Beverly Connor, Aaron Elkins, Erle Stanley Gardner, Dashiell Hammett, Peter Lovesey, Carol O'Connell, and others, I was used to a certain type of mystery – it could be cozy, it could be hard hitting/violent (and some downright abusive to their lead characters (looking at you Connor)), but it hadn’t exactly been drenched with sex (with sexual innuendo, yes, but not actual sex). It’s not that I hadn’t read that type of work, or that I didn’t have some ‘favorites’ that were ‘drenched with sex’, but not in my mysteries. So, in its way, I was confronted with a book that seemed quite well written, right along the line of some of the better written mysteries I’d read, but for two differences – the graphic sex, and the lesbian (or bisexual) nature of many of the characters. And no, I did not down-rate the book because of the lesbian nature (though I was aware that its existence among the traits of the characters would cut down on the readership), no, it was for the sex.
Imagine my surprise, in its way, when I reread the book. Yes the book has much sex in it, but it was handled a lot ‘better’ than I had recalled. I never thought it was the main theme, reason for the books existence, or other, more that I’d initially saw it as a distraction. But it isn’t really. It’s important to the story.
Ah, but I’m just babbling here. You want to know about the book? The story involves a rich family with an older dying grandfather type. And some kids running around trying to keep themselves in the will. Against the backdrop of a rather conservative grandfather. So no gay stuff. There are three main contenders for the money, one already took herself out of the running by bluntly telling her grandfather that she was a lesbian (this would be Cordelia), while the other two lied and tried to play it straight while secretly living a much . . . gayer life. So that’s how the story starts off – someone hires Micky to search for a runaway fiancé; some pictures are taken, some wills are changed; and other such stuff occurs along this plot line.
Meanwhile, somewhere along the way a detective sergeant friend adds Micky to go undercover to investigate a company that is suspected as having big ties to drug running (as in, they a drug dealers) – which leads to some connections to the earlier plotline and others.
Meanwhile – Micky drinks a lot, is a dick to her friends, has some emotional issues based on her disrupted early life, and some old history resurfaces. Oh, and she has sex. And solves mysteries. Also spends a lot of time accidentally destroying clothing.
Long and short, this was altogether a very interesting and good book. My only regret is that I initially gave this book such a low rating.
Rating: 5.0
ETA: Micky ages from 29 to 30 during the course of the book (no, the book isn't a year in Micky's life, she was just close to 30 when the book started) - I mention because the book is on both the age-20s and age-30s shelf.
February 14 2017
I initially rated this book something near 3.75 out of 5.00. It’s been three years, but I’ve a vague idea why – all that sex. Coming from a history of reading Robert B. Parker, Dick Francis, Lillian Jackson Braun, Agatha Christie, Beverly Connor, Aaron Elkins, Erle Stanley Gardner, Dashiell Hammett, Peter Lovesey, Carol O'Connell, and others, I was used to a certain type of mystery – it could be cozy, it could be hard hitting/violent (and some downright abusive to their lead characters (looking at you Connor)), but it hadn’t exactly been drenched with sex (with sexual innuendo, yes, but not actual sex). It’s not that I hadn’t read that type of work, or that I didn’t have some ‘favorites’ that were ‘drenched with sex’, but not in my mysteries. So, in its way, I was confronted with a book that seemed quite well written, right along the line of some of the better written mysteries I’d read, but for two differences – the graphic sex, and the lesbian (or bisexual) nature of many of the characters. And no, I did not down-rate the book because of the lesbian nature (though I was aware that its existence among the traits of the characters would cut down on the readership), no, it was for the sex.
Imagine my surprise, in its way, when I reread the book. Yes the book has much sex in it, but it was handled a lot ‘better’ than I had recalled. I never thought it was the main theme, reason for the books existence, or other, more that I’d initially saw it as a distraction. But it isn’t really. It’s important to the story.
Ah, but I’m just babbling here. You want to know about the book? The story involves a rich family with an older dying grandfather type. And some kids running around trying to keep themselves in the will. Against the backdrop of a rather conservative grandfather. So no gay stuff. There are three main contenders for the money, one already took herself out of the running by bluntly telling her grandfather that she was a lesbian (this would be Cordelia), while the other two lied and tried to play it straight while secretly living a much . . . gayer life. So that’s how the story starts off – someone hires Micky to search for a runaway fiancé; some pictures are taken, some wills are changed; and other such stuff occurs along this plot line.
Meanwhile, somewhere along the way a detective sergeant friend adds Micky to go undercover to investigate a company that is suspected as having big ties to drug running (as in, they a drug dealers) – which leads to some connections to the earlier plotline and others.
Meanwhile – Micky drinks a lot, is a dick to her friends, has some emotional issues based on her disrupted early life, and some old history resurfaces. Oh, and she has sex. And solves mysteries. Also spends a lot of time accidentally destroying clothing.
Long and short, this was altogether a very interesting and good book. My only regret is that I initially gave this book such a low rating.
Rating: 5.0
ETA: Micky ages from 29 to 30 during the course of the book (no, the book isn't a year in Micky's life, she was just close to 30 when the book started) - I mention because the book is on both the age-20s and age-30s shelf.
February 14 2017
November 19, 2019
Micky's narration at the beginning of this story was like one of those old black and white detective shows, only with a hard-ass female as the lead rather than an overweight bald guy in a fedora. Fuck goddamned, this was a good read, I fell for Micky in the first few pages. Her snark, sarcasm and deflection only made my curiosity grow as the story hinted at a sensitive heart that had seen way too much. And jesus christ at a bus stop, does she EVER have a complex, traumatic past. No wonder her hard exterior and inability to trust.
Michele "Micky" Knight is a down and out detective with no money to even feed her cat, but also has a strong sense of loyalty and would give her last penny to anyone in need. Just don't make her admit it. She roots for the underdog, as she has been in that position to many times to count in her life. She is a tall, strong, casual-sex taker, hilarious one-liner, Cajun-Greek curly haired woman who is nothing but assertive and won't take shit from anyone. And I want more of her. Bonus: I HAVE NINE MORE BOOKS TO READ ABOUT HER, BITCHES! Lucky me!
This character just blew me away, as did the supporting characters of Joanne, Danny, Cordelia, even Hutch. There is some harsh themes here, namely childhood abuse and emotional neglect, alcoholism, violence towards women, etc. But you cannot help but want Micky to win at everything. With all her sharp edges and armour, she is also a woman who truly wants to trust and to love with her whole being. I cannot wait to read more of her adventures. JM Redmann, why have I not heard of you before?
Oh god, last thing: how can I review this book without mentioning the conversation with old man Issac on the pier. I just cannot. I count this conversation as the most impacting and heartwarming conversation in lesfic and went back to read it twice. His simple words of wisdom, to "endure, but endure happy, not sad," along with his own memories and experiences, was the most perfect advice Micky could have got at that very intense moment, and I applaud Ms. Redmann for whatever part of her brainy imagination this came from. I will not soon forget it and highlighted the shit out of my e-reader.
Michele "Micky" Knight is a down and out detective with no money to even feed her cat, but also has a strong sense of loyalty and would give her last penny to anyone in need. Just don't make her admit it. She roots for the underdog, as she has been in that position to many times to count in her life. She is a tall, strong, casual-sex taker, hilarious one-liner, Cajun-Greek curly haired woman who is nothing but assertive and won't take shit from anyone. And I want more of her. Bonus: I HAVE NINE MORE BOOKS TO READ ABOUT HER, BITCHES! Lucky me!
This character just blew me away, as did the supporting characters of Joanne, Danny, Cordelia, even Hutch. There is some harsh themes here, namely childhood abuse and emotional neglect, alcoholism, violence towards women, etc. But you cannot help but want Micky to win at everything. With all her sharp edges and armour, she is also a woman who truly wants to trust and to love with her whole being. I cannot wait to read more of her adventures. JM Redmann, why have I not heard of you before?
Oh god, last thing: how can I review this book without mentioning the conversation with old man Issac on the pier. I just cannot. I count this conversation as the most impacting and heartwarming conversation in lesfic and went back to read it twice. His simple words of wisdom, to "endure, but endure happy, not sad," along with his own memories and experiences, was the most perfect advice Micky could have got at that very intense moment, and I applaud Ms. Redmann for whatever part of her brainy imagination this came from. I will not soon forget it and highlighted the shit out of my e-reader.
March 28, 2020
Fantastic read!
March 19, 2020
I loved every word of this book. I actually read it twice! It's gritty, it's personal, it's not as dark as I expected. It's so well-done, I could see every scene as it played out.
I am hooked.
I am now a Redmann fan for life. Excuse me, I have to go now and consume...I mean, read, the next book.
And then the next.
And then the next...
I am hooked.
I am now a Redmann fan for life. Excuse me, I have to go now and consume...I mean, read, the next book.
And then the next.
And then the next...
September 26, 2018
This book is in my recommended books of the month
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This is the start of the series of 9 books (so far) written by Ms. Redmann along three decades following the adventures of Private detective Micky Knight in the city of New Orleans. In this book, Micky attempts to expose a dangerous drug ring and meets the enigmatic Dr. Cordelia James. 4.5 stars.
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This is the start of the series of 9 books (so far) written by Ms. Redmann along three decades following the adventures of Private detective Micky Knight in the city of New Orleans. In this book, Micky attempts to expose a dangerous drug ring and meets the enigmatic Dr. Cordelia James. 4.5 stars.
June 27, 2015
WOW! What a main character! Michele "Micky" Knight is "old school", she drinks too much, has her life together but not really and she sort of knows what she wants. You will either enjoy her character as the story unfolds or you will not. What I like is her persistence, care for others and not stopping until the job is complete. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
November 5, 2019
4 stars - I can't wait to read more of this series!
June 26, 2018
Over the last couple of years I have started this book several times. I have put it down just as many times. Somehow I couldn't get into it and I started to doubt if this book was any good. How wrong I was.
I just needed the right time and frame of mind to read this book because this is an amazing book and could easily become one of my favourite series.
Micky Knight is a self absorbed, drinking womanizer and is a straight up ass. Maybe this is why I couldn't get into the book at first; I couldn't really relate to Micky. But the further I read the better the book got and the more you got to know about Mickeys backstory. And suddenly you kind of understand her behaviour a bit more and you understand why she keeps her emotions and feelings hidden.
The side character's are amazing and help to create an in-depth view of both Micky and her life. Even though the story is told in a first person view I did not feel that this was a disadvantage to the side characters; through Mickys interaction with them we get to know them pretty well.
The romance was only a small part of the story and was defenitly a slow burn. Maybe this will continue in the other books of the series.
I loved this book and even though it took me a while and several tries to get really into it, I would definitly recommend. I rate the book 4,5 stars with a round up to 5.
I just needed the right time and frame of mind to read this book because this is an amazing book and could easily become one of my favourite series.
Micky Knight is a self absorbed, drinking womanizer and is a straight up ass. Maybe this is why I couldn't get into the book at first; I couldn't really relate to Micky. But the further I read the better the book got and the more you got to know about Mickeys backstory. And suddenly you kind of understand her behaviour a bit more and you understand why she keeps her emotions and feelings hidden.
The side character's are amazing and help to create an in-depth view of both Micky and her life. Even though the story is told in a first person view I did not feel that this was a disadvantage to the side characters; through Mickys interaction with them we get to know them pretty well.
The romance was only a small part of the story and was defenitly a slow burn. Maybe this will continue in the other books of the series.
I loved this book and even though it took me a while and several tries to get really into it, I would definitly recommend. I rate the book 4,5 stars with a round up to 5.
February 15, 2018
Sucked in right from the start. I liked Micky from the beginning, she was who she was, she was honest about it. Although she has a tough outer shell, underneath is a big heart and all of her friends could see it. The plot kept be gripped throughout and hoping to see a little romance in the next book.
January 14, 2024
Loved the first 10%, but gradually became disenchanted as the tale became more ludicrous and outlandish. Ended by saying “really?” Enough.
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June 18, 2020The Micky Knight series seems to be one of the most popular around right now, and Micky herself appears to be a well-liked character. I'm not sure why.
The first few pages—even chapters— of Death by the Riverside seem confused, as if an editor has missed something. The prose is shabby and faux-tough and Micky is as unpleasant a protagonist as you art likely to find. Essentially, she speaks in bad quips, like someone trying to amuse a room full of her own clones. For instance, “I’m so witty with cunt juice dribbling down my face,” “The office was managed well, but that was no guarantee that she was a nice person,” “Beauty is fleeting, but painful feet are forever.” She is described by one of the other characters as having “never in her life held a serious conversation.” In her own words, Micky says, “I have an incurable sophomoric streak in me.” More like she is incredibly sophomoric, with maybe a streak of likeableness somewhere inside.
Yet the author would have us believe that at least four attractive, successful, and intelligent women are slavering after Micky like mothers, lovers, and best friends all together. This beggars the imagination. I can’t help but think that Katherine V. Forrest would have cast Micky as an unlikable extra in a lesbian bar (that is, if Forrest would admit that any denizen of a lesbian bar could be unsympathetic).
But Micky is not the only problem with the book. The plot is a mishmash of two separate stories tied together in a coincidence so extraordinary that it amounts to a fatal flaw—my term for that point in a bad book beyond which I can no longer treat it seriously. I have already mentioned sloppy editing, but it gets worse. With a competent editor, it may have been crafted into an exciting, well-paced thriller, although I doubt any editor could made Micky into someone a sensible reader cared about. Even the few good scenes, such as one where Micky, depressed because an old friend has just (unrealistically) shot himself, walks sadly to a pier and has a conversation with an old Cajun (although his presence there would have been more believable if she had intimated that he was an angel). The conversation, for once, is good; the situation is contrived.
I suspect that Redmann’s current popularity stems from the fact that she recently put out an eighth Micky Knight mystery. And perhaps she has gotten better over the years. I hope so, but I probably will not have time or inclination to sample other books in this series, especially at the rich price of $9.999 for the e-book versions.
Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
The first few pages—even chapters— of Death by the Riverside seem confused, as if an editor has missed something. The prose is shabby and faux-tough and Micky is as unpleasant a protagonist as you art likely to find. Essentially, she speaks in bad quips, like someone trying to amuse a room full of her own clones. For instance, “I’m so witty with cunt juice dribbling down my face,” “The office was managed well, but that was no guarantee that she was a nice person,” “Beauty is fleeting, but painful feet are forever.” She is described by one of the other characters as having “never in her life held a serious conversation.” In her own words, Micky says, “I have an incurable sophomoric streak in me.” More like she is incredibly sophomoric, with maybe a streak of likeableness somewhere inside.
Yet the author would have us believe that at least four attractive, successful, and intelligent women are slavering after Micky like mothers, lovers, and best friends all together. This beggars the imagination. I can’t help but think that Katherine V. Forrest would have cast Micky as an unlikable extra in a lesbian bar (that is, if Forrest would admit that any denizen of a lesbian bar could be unsympathetic).
But Micky is not the only problem with the book. The plot is a mishmash of two separate stories tied together in a coincidence so extraordinary that it amounts to a fatal flaw—my term for that point in a bad book beyond which I can no longer treat it seriously. I have already mentioned sloppy editing, but it gets worse. With a competent editor, it may have been crafted into an exciting, well-paced thriller, although I doubt any editor could made Micky into someone a sensible reader cared about. Even the few good scenes, such as one where Micky, depressed because an old friend has just (unrealistically) shot himself, walks sadly to a pier and has a conversation with an old Cajun (although his presence there would have been more believable if she had intimated that he was an angel). The conversation, for once, is good; the situation is contrived.
I suspect that Redmann’s current popularity stems from the fact that she recently put out an eighth Micky Knight mystery. And perhaps she has gotten better over the years. I hope so, but I probably will not have time or inclination to sample other books in this series, especially at the rich price of $9.999 for the e-book versions.
Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
July 14, 2010
Holy crap, what a great book! I’d had trouble finding this, the first in the series, so started the second. There were too many mentions of things that happened in the first one, so I went into must-find mode. Even the publisher only had e-book versions. I ended up with a used copy—sorry J.M., no royalties on this one. While Micky Knight is a pretty typical hard-boiled private eye, what I like about this book is that the mystery does not overpower the characters. There are mysteries for the sake of the mystery and the characters serve only to solve it. Then there are characters who get to solve a mystery, but the real story is about them. I like that, especially in a series. There were some minor plot weaknesses and implausibilities—by the time I got to the snakes, I was asking “What the hell?”—but not enough to harm the story. My only issue, is that in describing Micky, or perhaps not describing her well enough, Redmann presented an image of a pretty tough butch. So when she puts on heels and skirts, I could only imagine her looking like a guy in drag. Later she’s mentioned as being sexy. Oh? So more care with her looks would have helped. There were more typos than I expected for a reprint where the author claims she “found a few more.” Clearly not enough. War of Succession? I don’t think so. Try Secession.
Reading these books together highlighted their clear examples of showing a character change. In Ammonite, it’s pretty dramatic and physical. My only issue is it’s a bit too easy for the character. She acknowledges what she’s losing in the process, but it doesn’t seem to affect her. No more cheeseburgers? Come on, that’s got to hurt. In Riverside, it’s equally dramatic, though psychological. Micky, a former philosophy major, knows darn well the demons she’s dealing with and we get to watch her struggle. Nothing is easy and the ending, while not quite what you might have hoped for, is completely satisfying.
Reading these books together highlighted their clear examples of showing a character change. In Ammonite, it’s pretty dramatic and physical. My only issue is it’s a bit too easy for the character. She acknowledges what she’s losing in the process, but it doesn’t seem to affect her. No more cheeseburgers? Come on, that’s got to hurt. In Riverside, it’s equally dramatic, though psychological. Micky, a former philosophy major, knows darn well the demons she’s dealing with and we get to watch her struggle. Nothing is easy and the ending, while not quite what you might have hoped for, is completely satisfying.
July 11, 2016
Definitly not a re-read and I will stay clear of the author's other works.
The idea wasn't bad. The problem is, this isn't really a mystery. The investigation only makes up a small part of the book, most of it is the protagonist complaining about her awful life or remembering terrible things from her past. She had a traumatic childhood. She's from a poor family and feels inadequate. She has a college degree but works as a PI in a bad neighbourhood, is chronically broke and her apartment is as much a mess as her love life. Her cat doesn't like her. She has an alcohol problem (the heroine, not the cat). Most of her plans backfire horribly because she's not very good at her job.
Bottom line: we spend most of the book listening to the protagonists self-loathing, waiting for the mystery-plot to develop in-between.
And the fact that there are too many sex scenes isn't helped by the author beeing not very good at writing such scenes. Another thing the author doesn't write well are showdowns / action scenes. The final part of the book is fairly ridiculous with our heroine managing to accomplish things that would be a hard job for someone healthy, and she's critically wounded. I wouldn't mind if it was exciting or suspenseful, but it's just boring.
All in all, "Death by the Riverside" is a very depressing experience. If you want to read really good mysteries with a lesbian protagonist, I recommend the works of Katherine Forrest. They have their dark moments too but the stories and writing are excellent.
The idea wasn't bad. The problem is, this isn't really a mystery. The investigation only makes up a small part of the book, most of it is the protagonist complaining about her awful life or remembering terrible things from her past. She had a traumatic childhood. She's from a poor family and feels inadequate. She has a college degree but works as a PI in a bad neighbourhood, is chronically broke and her apartment is as much a mess as her love life. Her cat doesn't like her. She has an alcohol problem (the heroine, not the cat). Most of her plans backfire horribly because she's not very good at her job.
Bottom line: we spend most of the book listening to the protagonists self-loathing, waiting for the mystery-plot to develop in-between.
And the fact that there are too many sex scenes isn't helped by the author beeing not very good at writing such scenes. Another thing the author doesn't write well are showdowns / action scenes. The final part of the book is fairly ridiculous with our heroine managing to accomplish things that would be a hard job for someone healthy, and she's critically wounded. I wouldn't mind if it was exciting or suspenseful, but it's just boring.
All in all, "Death by the Riverside" is a very depressing experience. If you want to read really good mysteries with a lesbian protagonist, I recommend the works of Katherine Forrest. They have their dark moments too but the stories and writing are excellent.
June 9, 2022
4.35
*thoughts written to come*
*thoughts written to come*
May 21, 2022
Worth Every Penny
I heard about this author and series in one of my clubs. I’m so glad I did. Very exciting and extremely funny book. I can’t wait to read the next one.
I heard about this author and series in one of my clubs. I’m so glad I did. Very exciting and extremely funny book. I can’t wait to read the next one.
May 26, 2020
I can’t wait for reading the second book!
February 1, 2014
This first 'Micky Knight Mystery' book is magnificent. It firmly establishes New Orleans as the energy and heart surrounding our introduction to Micky Knight, born as Michele Antigone Robedeaux. That bit of data gently fell into my lap after I had read three quarters of the book. I treasured it. Micky is a classic tough nut and rarely gets too close to anyone. Is she a private investigator because or in spite of her prickly nature? Getting to know Micky from the start was even more of a delight in addition to this a very fine and exciting story. I definitely recommend reading this before 'The Shoal of Time' as some important foundation data comes along with the great mystery!
Micky is a private investigator and her home and office share the same space. She has a most interesting roommate named Hepplewhite, a very resourceful cat that knows how to make her eating requirements known. I liked the cat! Along with Micky's investigative jobs, some very crucial background history about Mickey unfolds revealing some harsh times in her early years and a pivotal event that happened to her and her father when she was only ten years old. Micky has a refined and practiced irascible nature that for the most part seems to be designed to keep folks at arm's length. Her reputation for generally not staying with any one woman for very long also finds her having a really difficult time expressing her intimate feelings. She is a fascinating and tough gal who uses her bayou upbringing, her private eye skills, her imposing stature plus disarming good looks to keep one step ahead of the bad dudes...one step ahead of everyone. I loved Micky!
There are several gals who have and are willing to go toe-to-toe with Micky and they pop in and out of the action right down to the near heart stomping conclusion. Danny is the only one I know of who spent a summer partnered with Micky. They had gone to college together and linked up afterward although not too successful and mainly because of Micky. Nevertheless Danny, Danielle Clayton, as an active lawyer with the D.A.'s office still has a soft spot for Micky even though she is currently with a woman who is much more stable and definitely less prone to sleeping around. Detective Sergeant Joanne Ranson and Dr. Cordelia James float in and out of Micky's inner circle and there are some extremely interesting interactions and potential linkages that add to the sexually interesting goings-on that are never far from Micky's mind even when battling the really bad jokers that place her and a number of her acquaintances in serious trouble. There are several more totally engaging characters who certainly make this book a cornucopia of quite original folks who take the stage front and center and I completely enjoyed them all!
This is an involving and completely satisfying story of a complex and sometimes self-defeating woman who needs to sort out and put some of her ghosts to pasture. The intense and ongoing battle to not only uncover but completely stop an insidious drug operation becomes the central action event while multiple personal and sometimes intimate interactions keep Micky and her friends and associates in deliciously complex and sexually involving postures that simply elevate the enjoyment of this book to marvelous peaks. The hospital scenes make for downright fascinating interludes. The various neighbors and subsidiary characters are simply marvelous and crafted with unusual care. This was a top-notch introduction that was a profoundly sound and an enjoyably commencement into the amazing world of Micky Knight. Oh by the way, there is one central and charming character who does actually die by the riverside and was a great loss and additional incentive for Micky to prevail. Please don't miss this complete package!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Micky is a private investigator and her home and office share the same space. She has a most interesting roommate named Hepplewhite, a very resourceful cat that knows how to make her eating requirements known. I liked the cat! Along with Micky's investigative jobs, some very crucial background history about Mickey unfolds revealing some harsh times in her early years and a pivotal event that happened to her and her father when she was only ten years old. Micky has a refined and practiced irascible nature that for the most part seems to be designed to keep folks at arm's length. Her reputation for generally not staying with any one woman for very long also finds her having a really difficult time expressing her intimate feelings. She is a fascinating and tough gal who uses her bayou upbringing, her private eye skills, her imposing stature plus disarming good looks to keep one step ahead of the bad dudes...one step ahead of everyone. I loved Micky!
There are several gals who have and are willing to go toe-to-toe with Micky and they pop in and out of the action right down to the near heart stomping conclusion. Danny is the only one I know of who spent a summer partnered with Micky. They had gone to college together and linked up afterward although not too successful and mainly because of Micky. Nevertheless Danny, Danielle Clayton, as an active lawyer with the D.A.'s office still has a soft spot for Micky even though she is currently with a woman who is much more stable and definitely less prone to sleeping around. Detective Sergeant Joanne Ranson and Dr. Cordelia James float in and out of Micky's inner circle and there are some extremely interesting interactions and potential linkages that add to the sexually interesting goings-on that are never far from Micky's mind even when battling the really bad jokers that place her and a number of her acquaintances in serious trouble. There are several more totally engaging characters who certainly make this book a cornucopia of quite original folks who take the stage front and center and I completely enjoyed them all!
This is an involving and completely satisfying story of a complex and sometimes self-defeating woman who needs to sort out and put some of her ghosts to pasture. The intense and ongoing battle to not only uncover but completely stop an insidious drug operation becomes the central action event while multiple personal and sometimes intimate interactions keep Micky and her friends and associates in deliciously complex and sexually involving postures that simply elevate the enjoyment of this book to marvelous peaks. The hospital scenes make for downright fascinating interludes. The various neighbors and subsidiary characters are simply marvelous and crafted with unusual care. This was a top-notch introduction that was a profoundly sound and an enjoyably commencement into the amazing world of Micky Knight. Oh by the way, there is one central and charming character who does actually die by the riverside and was a great loss and additional incentive for Micky to prevail. Please don't miss this complete package!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 21, 2019
4.25 | Micky, man.
August 19, 2020
Everything I didn’t know I needed.
I need to read the next book NOW
I need to read the next book NOW
January 1, 2023
Good indeed
I have been into crime mystery books lately. Now, this one was slightly different, because people are got really hurt and not just bystanders. And my woman trying to solve cases and getting kidnapped and beaten, the action and tension was very captivating.
I am so glad Cordelia is not going to marry that dude because that was my deciding factor to continuing with this series. I don't like when my women become second serves when they're a whole course. Just no. Micky, my love.
I have been into crime mystery books lately. Now, this one was slightly different, because people are got really hurt and not just bystanders. And my woman trying to solve cases and getting kidnapped and beaten, the action and tension was very captivating.
I am so glad Cordelia is not going to marry that dude because that was my deciding factor to continuing with this series. I don't like when my women become second serves when they're a whole course. Just no. Micky, my love.
May 24, 2012
Book Info: Genre: Detective Reading Level: Adult
Disclosure: I received a free copy of book 7 in this series in exchange for an honest review. I purchased the rest of the books in the series myself, so am under no particular obligation, but am happy to provide an honest review.
Synopsis: Detective Micky Knight, hired to take a few pictures, finds herself slugging through thugs and slogging through swamps while trying to expose a dangerous drug ring. Things turn personal when her own well-hidden past is exposed.
My Thoughts: This is the sort of book that makes me happy I like to read, because it is the whole package. Murder, mystery, adventure, a dashing heroine, sex and violence and … Beethoven’s 9th.
I was bemoaning the dearth of books with a lesbian protagonist when I found Ill Will, the 7th Micky Knight book, on NetGalley. I had a gift certificate left on Amazon, so I bought the rest of the series. I’m very happy I did. Micky is a complicated person – full of pain on the inside, full of snark on the outside. While she has a network of friends – Danny and Joanne Ranson included – she is always on the move, not ready to settle down, terrified to allow herself to fall in love. After her father died, she was forced to move in with her Aunt Greta, who was a bitter and ugly (inside) woman that treated Micky horribly. Her only reprieve was her Sundays with her Great-Aunt Harriet, and after she died, Micky closed herself off, afraid that anyone she loved with end up dead. She drinks too much, she sleeps around, and she barely makes enough to survive, but she tells herself she is happy. But when confronted with the happiness of her friends and their partners, Micky starts to question herself. Why? Why not? is her standard response to these sorts of thoughts, but after awhile she remembers the only essay that received an A in her philosophy class: Because.
We take a real journey with Micky in this first book, and I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book in the series, Deaths of Jocasta. So, let me recommend this book to those of you who are searching for something wonderful to read, with a lesbian protagonist and a wonderfully fast-paced storyline. You won’t regret your decision to give these books a try.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of book 7 in this series in exchange for an honest review. I purchased the rest of the books in the series myself, so am under no particular obligation, but am happy to provide an honest review.
Synopsis: Detective Micky Knight, hired to take a few pictures, finds herself slugging through thugs and slogging through swamps while trying to expose a dangerous drug ring. Things turn personal when her own well-hidden past is exposed.
My Thoughts: This is the sort of book that makes me happy I like to read, because it is the whole package. Murder, mystery, adventure, a dashing heroine, sex and violence and … Beethoven’s 9th.
I was bemoaning the dearth of books with a lesbian protagonist when I found Ill Will, the 7th Micky Knight book, on NetGalley. I had a gift certificate left on Amazon, so I bought the rest of the series. I’m very happy I did. Micky is a complicated person – full of pain on the inside, full of snark on the outside. While she has a network of friends – Danny and Joanne Ranson included – she is always on the move, not ready to settle down, terrified to allow herself to fall in love. After her father died, she was forced to move in with her Aunt Greta, who was a bitter and ugly (inside) woman that treated Micky horribly. Her only reprieve was her Sundays with her Great-Aunt Harriet, and after she died, Micky closed herself off, afraid that anyone she loved with end up dead. She drinks too much, she sleeps around, and she barely makes enough to survive, but she tells herself she is happy. But when confronted with the happiness of her friends and their partners, Micky starts to question herself. Why? Why not? is her standard response to these sorts of thoughts, but after awhile she remembers the only essay that received an A in her philosophy class: Because.
We take a real journey with Micky in this first book, and I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book in the series, Deaths of Jocasta. So, let me recommend this book to those of you who are searching for something wonderful to read, with a lesbian protagonist and a wonderfully fast-paced storyline. You won’t regret your decision to give these books a try.
June 15, 2020
Drug trafficking, the Dixie Mafia, inheritance wars, and an assortment of queer characters leading the charge? Yes, please!
I'm not sure why I don't read more mystery/thriller books because I usually enjoy them when I do, and J.M. Redmann's Death by the Riverside is no exception. I liked the plot and the characters and the Louisiana setting. And I was really rooting for the romance, which has to be one of the craziest couplings ever (no spoilers), but I really liked watching it all develop.
Here's the thing, though. I really didn't like Micky Knight all that much. I rooted for her--don't get me wrong. I wanted her to solve the mystery and the crime and I definitely wanted her to get the girl, but I didn't like her all that much: aiming below her potential, hard and damaged and gruff, woe is me, etc. I just didn't like that she fit nicely into that P.I. trope I see in every novel where the P.I. is guy. I don't like reading about that guy, and changing him into a queer woman, it turns out, doesn't make me like her anymore. I did like the literary refences and the discussion on philosophy and her knowledge of classical music. I loved how she took every opportunity afforded to her to roast Thoreau (a character in the novel, not the author. LOL). So I didn't hate her by any means, I just wish she wasn't such a genre stereotype.
This series is 10 stories long at this point and that concerns me a bit for someone more invested in the romance than with the crime investigations, but I will definitely pick up the second book and see how far into this I go.
Also, it was super strange to read about the not-so-distant past where people had answering machines and no cell phones and no keyless start for cars. It added for a bit more suspense that way. And it's weird because I definitely lived in that analog world, but seeing it on the page was so odd. So a fair bit of warning for readers: this book can feel dated at times, and it's not due to the lack of technology but by the way queerness is understood and lived out. I'm probably not explaining that well, but I'm so glad it exists for that reason alone.
Last thing I'll say about this--without spoiling anything: The rattlesnakes! Genius.
I'm not sure why I don't read more mystery/thriller books because I usually enjoy them when I do, and J.M. Redmann's Death by the Riverside is no exception. I liked the plot and the characters and the Louisiana setting. And I was really rooting for the romance, which has to be one of the craziest couplings ever (no spoilers), but I really liked watching it all develop.
Here's the thing, though. I really didn't like Micky Knight all that much. I rooted for her--don't get me wrong. I wanted her to solve the mystery and the crime and I definitely wanted her to get the girl, but I didn't like her all that much: aiming below her potential, hard and damaged and gruff, woe is me, etc. I just didn't like that she fit nicely into that P.I. trope I see in every novel where the P.I. is guy. I don't like reading about that guy, and changing him into a queer woman, it turns out, doesn't make me like her anymore. I did like the literary refences and the discussion on philosophy and her knowledge of classical music. I loved how she took every opportunity afforded to her to roast Thoreau (a character in the novel, not the author. LOL). So I didn't hate her by any means, I just wish she wasn't such a genre stereotype.
This series is 10 stories long at this point and that concerns me a bit for someone more invested in the romance than with the crime investigations, but I will definitely pick up the second book and see how far into this I go.
Also, it was super strange to read about the not-so-distant past where people had answering machines and no cell phones and no keyless start for cars. It added for a bit more suspense that way. And it's weird because I definitely lived in that analog world, but seeing it on the page was so odd. So a fair bit of warning for readers: this book can feel dated at times, and it's not due to the lack of technology but by the way queerness is understood and lived out. I'm probably not explaining that well, but I'm so glad it exists for that reason alone.
Last thing I'll say about this--without spoiling anything: The rattlesnakes! Genius.
June 26, 2009
Reading Death of a Dying Man made me want to reread the series because there was really a lot of stuff I didn't remember. I couldn't place some characters and couldn't recall al ot of Micky's history.
So I went and read. It was fun! Micky was rawer and edgier back then, layers and layers of her history slowly displayed. I disliked her best friend Danny with a passion I don't think I felt the first time around.
Back when I first read it it was the first lesbian novel in which the characters, and certainly the main character, were not politically correct, and definitely not 'nice'. It was also the first I think in which the sex wasn't 'nice' and not necessarily about making love, and *gasp* there even was penetration and sex toys. Who'd have thunk???
The writing is good and certainly held its own over the last two decades. I was a bit annoyed with some things in the German translation, but that's due to vocabulary changing since the book was first published so it has an antiquated feel to it, some decisions by the translator I don't think fit Micky and I guess I do have to pick up an English copy one of these days to see the original passages for the stuff that bothered me.
Very good visit, have already started with the second in the series.
So I went and read. It was fun! Micky was rawer and edgier back then, layers and layers of her history slowly displayed. I disliked her best friend Danny with a passion I don't think I felt the first time around.
Back when I first read it it was the first lesbian novel in which the characters, and certainly the main character, were not politically correct, and definitely not 'nice'. It was also the first I think in which the sex wasn't 'nice' and not necessarily about making love, and *gasp* there even was penetration and sex toys. Who'd have thunk???
The writing is good and certainly held its own over the last two decades. I was a bit annoyed with some things in the German translation, but that's due to vocabulary changing since the book was first published so it has an antiquated feel to it, some decisions by the translator I don't think fit Micky and I guess I do have to pick up an English copy one of these days to see the original passages for the stuff that bothered me.
Very good visit, have already started with the second in the series.
September 3, 2014
This book was just AMAZING! It is taking all my willpower and knowledge of how many unread books I have at home to not just go to amazon and buy the next in the series right now! I suspect I will give in by the end of the week.
This book is the best of lesbian detective novels done in the style of the hard boiled detective books of Hammett and Chandler. Our PI drinks too much scotch, has sex with her attractive women clients and all sorts of colourful friends. The plot is interesting with a lot of different twists and turns. There's no simple "murder" to be solved rather a crime racket and a lot of death and misery along the way. The book is filled with an interesting diversity of minor characters. Mikey's friends all seem like real people with different backgrounds and personalities. And of course Mikey has her own traumatic past that is linked in with events in the story.
I can't recommend this highly enough. I can't wait to read the next one. This series is everything that I hoped it would be.
This book is the best of lesbian detective novels done in the style of the hard boiled detective books of Hammett and Chandler. Our PI drinks too much scotch, has sex with her attractive women clients and all sorts of colourful friends. The plot is interesting with a lot of different twists and turns. There's no simple "murder" to be solved rather a crime racket and a lot of death and misery along the way. The book is filled with an interesting diversity of minor characters. Mikey's friends all seem like real people with different backgrounds and personalities. And of course Mikey has her own traumatic past that is linked in with events in the story.
I can't recommend this highly enough. I can't wait to read the next one. This series is everything that I hoped it would be.
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