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But Not for Me
1958 San Beatniks, Eisenhower, Fillmore District jazz and Major League baseball. As Mayor George Christopher fights an influx of organized crime and redevelopment begins to transform the city, racial and political tensions rise when a Black real estate magnate is murdered.
Kay Schiffner is a practicing lawyer by day, during a time when women were rarely hired as lawyers, and at night, secretly follows her passion for playing jazz at the Blue Moon in San Francisco’s Fillmore District, a neighborhood where good white women weren’t supposed to go.
Leitisha Boone is the Fillmore District’s only Black female club owner, having started her career in her father’s barbecue joint. She’s not about to give up her successful and elegant Blue Moon when threatened by redevelopment and betrayed by men who don’t believe women should run a business, even when threats turn deadly.
When Leitisha is arrested for murder, Kay’s search for the truth leads her from city politics to the mafia, Beatnik poets to union graft. As pressure mounts from her boss, the police force, and organized crime, Kay must make an impossible choice—to save her hard-won job as a lawyer or to risk her own life and livelihood to try and save the friend and her club that gave her music.
But Not for Me is more than a crime story with a murder to solve. Told through the experiences of two women, the story explores the dark side of gentrification in one of America’s most colorful cities.
Kay Schiffner is a practicing lawyer by day, during a time when women were rarely hired as lawyers, and at night, secretly follows her passion for playing jazz at the Blue Moon in San Francisco’s Fillmore District, a neighborhood where good white women weren’t supposed to go.
Leitisha Boone is the Fillmore District’s only Black female club owner, having started her career in her father’s barbecue joint. She’s not about to give up her successful and elegant Blue Moon when threatened by redevelopment and betrayed by men who don’t believe women should run a business, even when threats turn deadly.
When Leitisha is arrested for murder, Kay’s search for the truth leads her from city politics to the mafia, Beatnik poets to union graft. As pressure mounts from her boss, the police force, and organized crime, Kay must make an impossible choice—to save her hard-won job as a lawyer or to risk her own life and livelihood to try and save the friend and her club that gave her music.
But Not for Me is more than a crime story with a murder to solve. Told through the experiences of two women, the story explores the dark side of gentrification in one of America’s most colorful cities.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 22, 2024
I'm still not sure why I said yes when I was offered a pre-release copy of this debut novel to read and review - after all, I'm an elderly woman living far north of the Mason-Dixon Line and not even close to being a history buff. But something about it called my name - and boy, am I glad I answered affirmatively. Put it this way: if this is the first in a series as it appears to be, please sign me up for the next one.
The story centers around Kay Schiffner, who despite the times when women are thought to be best kept barefoot and pregnant, has managed to earn a law degree. She's been hired at a San Francisco law firm, where she's basically treated like a second-class citizen. She's also an accomplished jazz pianist; by night, she often makes her way to the Blue Moon, a club in the Fillmore District, an almost exclusively Black (back then, it was Negro) neighborhood where a white woman tends to stand out. But she's made friends here and is accepted by the all-male jazz musicians who take the stage, often allowing her to sit in.
But the neighborhood itself is in danger; gentrification efforts are in full swing, with at least one developer outright threatening residents and club owner Leitisha Boone - herself a sort of anomaly - if they don't sell their homes and businesses at rock-bottom prices. Things take a turn for the worse when a Black real estate mogul is shot and killed - and Leitisha is arrested for the murder on the basis of evidence that everyone - including the cops - know was planted.
Soon, Kay realizes that she's up against some very powerful people. Given the time in history, her efforts to get justice for Leitisha bump up against the reality that Black people (and women) are nearly invisible and never taken seriously. Even though she finds a couple of allies in the legal and law enforcement ranks, she quickly realizes that forging ahead puts their lives -and hers - at risk. It's a well-written action-filled adventure from beginning to end and an insightful peek into the inequities of a world that brings back memories to those of us who were around back then and to those who weren't an awareness of a time when some people were more equal than others.
The story centers around Kay Schiffner, who despite the times when women are thought to be best kept barefoot and pregnant, has managed to earn a law degree. She's been hired at a San Francisco law firm, where she's basically treated like a second-class citizen. She's also an accomplished jazz pianist; by night, she often makes her way to the Blue Moon, a club in the Fillmore District, an almost exclusively Black (back then, it was Negro) neighborhood where a white woman tends to stand out. But she's made friends here and is accepted by the all-male jazz musicians who take the stage, often allowing her to sit in.
But the neighborhood itself is in danger; gentrification efforts are in full swing, with at least one developer outright threatening residents and club owner Leitisha Boone - herself a sort of anomaly - if they don't sell their homes and businesses at rock-bottom prices. Things take a turn for the worse when a Black real estate mogul is shot and killed - and Leitisha is arrested for the murder on the basis of evidence that everyone - including the cops - know was planted.
Soon, Kay realizes that she's up against some very powerful people. Given the time in history, her efforts to get justice for Leitisha bump up against the reality that Black people (and women) are nearly invisible and never taken seriously. Even though she finds a couple of allies in the legal and law enforcement ranks, she quickly realizes that forging ahead puts their lives -and hers - at risk. It's a well-written action-filled adventure from beginning to end and an insightful peek into the inequities of a world that brings back memories to those of us who were around back then and to those who weren't an awareness of a time when some people were more equal than others.
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February 20, 2024I keep talking about this book! I love a great mystery, and I really love reading about one of my favorite cities: San Francisco.
One of the most brilliant moves Allison A. Davis makes is to weave the rich history of music, baseball, and poetry into the historical fiction novel. Johnny Mathis, Willie Mays and the San Francisco Giants, and City Lights Booksellers! Brilliant.
Set in the late 50's, the history of the gentrification of Fillmore District was very interesting. Brought to life by characters of the time, this crime story brought forward race relations, women's rights, and the use of power to destroy.
One of the most brilliant moves Allison A. Davis makes is to weave the rich history of music, baseball, and poetry into the historical fiction novel. Johnny Mathis, Willie Mays and the San Francisco Giants, and City Lights Booksellers! Brilliant.
Set in the late 50's, the history of the gentrification of Fillmore District was very interesting. Brought to life by characters of the time, this crime story brought forward race relations, women's rights, and the use of power to destroy.
March 29, 2024
An absolute cracker, opening up the realisation of some of the real struggles faced by non-whites in the late 1950s.
February 23, 2024
“BUT NOT FOR ME”
by Allison A. Davis (2024)
Reviewed by Anirood Singh for NetGalley
Scheduled to be published September 17, 2024, by Bronzeville Books, California, U.S.A.
eBook ISBN: 978-1-952427-62-6; pages: 358
“Urban renewal is negro removal.”
Debut author, Allison A. Davis’s, Adult Historical Fiction: Mystery & Thrillers genre novel, “But Not For Me” is bookended by August 1 and August 29, 1958. She covers this four-week period in 358 pages divided into 77 chapters averaging 4.5 pages each. The title derives from that of the song, “But Not For Me”, originally composed in 1930 by brothers George and Ira Gershwin for the musical, “Girl Crazy”. The story is set in the Fillmore District in San Francisco’s Bay area. The tale unfolds through the eyes of Kay Shiffner, a smart white female piano-playing whiskey-drinking lawyer, somewhat unique for that paternalistic and racially divided time. The focus is on the physical yet also metaphorical Blue Moon bar, and specifically the trials and tribulations of its black owner, Leitisha Boone.
The novel’s dedication provides insight into its premise and objective:
“To Leola King, Queen of the Fillmore, and all the men and women who breathed life into the Harlem of the West.”
Fillmore District’s label derives from it emulating New York City’s black jazz musical locale. The story, then, is a slice of life centered on a few characters earning a living in the jazz entertainment and allied industries, but being thwarted by greedy entrepreneurs using racial laws to bulldoze black residents out of a small area. Conspiracies, dirty tricks, and murder provide the drama to an intriguing story. Davis writes in a conversational, easy-to-read style, facilitated by professional editing. The story has a precise timeline, making it easy to follow. The limited number of characters appear true to life and readers can identify with them and their plight. The foundation and framework of the drama in “But Not For Me” is summed up by her bartender, Walter, who remarks, “Urban renewal is negro removal.”
The protagonist, who learned to play the piano before she could run, is a frustrated lawyer in a male dominated profession and society. She finds solace in the Blue Moon where the music and comradery for most blacks is a temporary respite from racial hatred and the struggle for survival.
Starting with the murder of the owner of the property and attempts by the police to close down the establishment, Kay resolves to help Leitisha. An ally is Thursday Zimpel, a white Detective Inspector, unique in a racially repressive community. Through hard work and determination they are able to free Leitisha on a charge of murder, a battle won in a war that rages on.
Being a “non-white” (an official classification by the government of South Africa of persons of color during its race-based segregation policy, 1948-1994) who witnessed mass removals under the label of slum clearance, I was naturally and immediately drawn to “But Not For Me”. Such background enables me to respectfully highlight some perceived but limited shortcomings of the novel, in the belief that my views could be used to improve it.
The conversational but serious, visual, dramatic opening in undertones sets up the story well. This, alongside the guise of “redevelopment” and the devious means to achieve it promises to provide the drama and intrigue necessary for a mystery-thriller genre. However, some disappointment set in as I read further. I could not find the link between the title and the substance of the story. Some of the chapters, all being short, have little substance and do not advance the story nor reveal character. The realistic, intriguing murder scene and introduction to what seems like one honest cop in a city plagued by organized crime is not carried through realistically, given the frequent mention of “LCN”, La Cosa Nostra, the Mafia. With respect, Kay’s character is not well developed and did not evoke empathy from me, unlike Zimpel, who I could readily identify with. Frequent name-dropping, of songs and artistes does not help – “But Not For Me” could have been more enjoyable if known jazz performers were turned into fictionalized characters appearing at venues in the district. The closing of some chapters with a “black limousine’ moving in or out is unconvincing. The unholy alliance established by the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency, the California Department of Alcohol Beverage Control (“ABC”), the police, rich real estate developers, and the LCN has not been exploited sufficiently to heighten and sustain the intrigue and suspense in a crime thriller.
A smile followed by King’s familiar greeting, “Oh! How ya doin’, sugar?” at her small Blue Mirror Cocktail Lounge at 935 Fillmore strongly contrasts with the entrapment scene in Chapter 15. This incident actually happened, but has not been acknowledged by the author. I believe that had “But Not For Me” been a fictionalized biopic of Leola King and some jazz artistes, against a backdrop of race-based removals, the story and characters would have been more intriguing and engrossing, while also being realistic. She could have been the vehicle for a fictionalized tale based on her multiple tragic encounters until she left Fillmore and passed on at age 96. This would have been a fitting tribute to a hero. If, for example, the writer was guided by selected scenes from movies with the theme of jazz, such as “Stormy Monday”, “Cotton Club Encore”, and “I Call Him Morgan”, fused with police corruption movies like “Chinatown” and “L.A. Confidential”, I respectfully submit that Davis would have a bestseller. Jazz and its accompaniment, such as lifestyle, culture, fashion, cuisine, and language were successful American exports globally. A visual writing style, such as in a screenplay, could result in a series of crime-thriller novels and possibly also a movie with prequel and sequels a mini television drama series.
Notwithstanding some limited shortcomings, I have no hesitation in awarding “But Not For Me” 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it to historical fiction, jazz, and mystery-thriller aficionados.
by Allison A. Davis (2024)
Reviewed by Anirood Singh for NetGalley
Scheduled to be published September 17, 2024, by Bronzeville Books, California, U.S.A.
eBook ISBN: 978-1-952427-62-6; pages: 358
“Urban renewal is negro removal.”
Debut author, Allison A. Davis’s, Adult Historical Fiction: Mystery & Thrillers genre novel, “But Not For Me” is bookended by August 1 and August 29, 1958. She covers this four-week period in 358 pages divided into 77 chapters averaging 4.5 pages each. The title derives from that of the song, “But Not For Me”, originally composed in 1930 by brothers George and Ira Gershwin for the musical, “Girl Crazy”. The story is set in the Fillmore District in San Francisco’s Bay area. The tale unfolds through the eyes of Kay Shiffner, a smart white female piano-playing whiskey-drinking lawyer, somewhat unique for that paternalistic and racially divided time. The focus is on the physical yet also metaphorical Blue Moon bar, and specifically the trials and tribulations of its black owner, Leitisha Boone.
The novel’s dedication provides insight into its premise and objective:
“To Leola King, Queen of the Fillmore, and all the men and women who breathed life into the Harlem of the West.”
Fillmore District’s label derives from it emulating New York City’s black jazz musical locale. The story, then, is a slice of life centered on a few characters earning a living in the jazz entertainment and allied industries, but being thwarted by greedy entrepreneurs using racial laws to bulldoze black residents out of a small area. Conspiracies, dirty tricks, and murder provide the drama to an intriguing story. Davis writes in a conversational, easy-to-read style, facilitated by professional editing. The story has a precise timeline, making it easy to follow. The limited number of characters appear true to life and readers can identify with them and their plight. The foundation and framework of the drama in “But Not For Me” is summed up by her bartender, Walter, who remarks, “Urban renewal is negro removal.”
The protagonist, who learned to play the piano before she could run, is a frustrated lawyer in a male dominated profession and society. She finds solace in the Blue Moon where the music and comradery for most blacks is a temporary respite from racial hatred and the struggle for survival.
Starting with the murder of the owner of the property and attempts by the police to close down the establishment, Kay resolves to help Leitisha. An ally is Thursday Zimpel, a white Detective Inspector, unique in a racially repressive community. Through hard work and determination they are able to free Leitisha on a charge of murder, a battle won in a war that rages on.
Being a “non-white” (an official classification by the government of South Africa of persons of color during its race-based segregation policy, 1948-1994) who witnessed mass removals under the label of slum clearance, I was naturally and immediately drawn to “But Not For Me”. Such background enables me to respectfully highlight some perceived but limited shortcomings of the novel, in the belief that my views could be used to improve it.
The conversational but serious, visual, dramatic opening in undertones sets up the story well. This, alongside the guise of “redevelopment” and the devious means to achieve it promises to provide the drama and intrigue necessary for a mystery-thriller genre. However, some disappointment set in as I read further. I could not find the link between the title and the substance of the story. Some of the chapters, all being short, have little substance and do not advance the story nor reveal character. The realistic, intriguing murder scene and introduction to what seems like one honest cop in a city plagued by organized crime is not carried through realistically, given the frequent mention of “LCN”, La Cosa Nostra, the Mafia. With respect, Kay’s character is not well developed and did not evoke empathy from me, unlike Zimpel, who I could readily identify with. Frequent name-dropping, of songs and artistes does not help – “But Not For Me” could have been more enjoyable if known jazz performers were turned into fictionalized characters appearing at venues in the district. The closing of some chapters with a “black limousine’ moving in or out is unconvincing. The unholy alliance established by the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency, the California Department of Alcohol Beverage Control (“ABC”), the police, rich real estate developers, and the LCN has not been exploited sufficiently to heighten and sustain the intrigue and suspense in a crime thriller.
A smile followed by King’s familiar greeting, “Oh! How ya doin’, sugar?” at her small Blue Mirror Cocktail Lounge at 935 Fillmore strongly contrasts with the entrapment scene in Chapter 15. This incident actually happened, but has not been acknowledged by the author. I believe that had “But Not For Me” been a fictionalized biopic of Leola King and some jazz artistes, against a backdrop of race-based removals, the story and characters would have been more intriguing and engrossing, while also being realistic. She could have been the vehicle for a fictionalized tale based on her multiple tragic encounters until she left Fillmore and passed on at age 96. This would have been a fitting tribute to a hero. If, for example, the writer was guided by selected scenes from movies with the theme of jazz, such as “Stormy Monday”, “Cotton Club Encore”, and “I Call Him Morgan”, fused with police corruption movies like “Chinatown” and “L.A. Confidential”, I respectfully submit that Davis would have a bestseller. Jazz and its accompaniment, such as lifestyle, culture, fashion, cuisine, and language were successful American exports globally. A visual writing style, such as in a screenplay, could result in a series of crime-thriller novels and possibly also a movie with prequel and sequels a mini television drama series.
Notwithstanding some limited shortcomings, I have no hesitation in awarding “But Not For Me” 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it to historical fiction, jazz, and mystery-thriller aficionados.
September 22, 2024
But Not For Me by Allison Davis is a fantastic read! I can’t believe this is Allison’s debut novel, she did a brilliant job. If you like historical fiction, strong female characters, plot twists, jazz club, politics, mystery, with dual POV’s, and getting justice then you will love this book.
Kay Schiffner white FMC, is a lawyer who has a love for playing and listening to jazz music. After work she likes to play at the Blue Moon, a club owned by Letisha Boone a black FMC, in the Fillmore District . Letisha is wrongly being accused of murdering real estate agent Marvin Wright, they had gotten into an argument before his unaliving. Letisha is being framed and knows she isn't getting out of jail until either she confesses to the murder or evidence that proves that she didn't do it is found. Kay facing danger at every corner, puts her life on the line and decides to become her lawyer. She along with the help of investigator Thursday Zimpel, are determined to find out the truth and get justice for Letisha.
This story takes place in 1950s San Francisco and takes you back to a different time of organized crime, politics, culture, when racial tensions were high, and women were trying to break free from being seen as less than, in a man dominated world, and jazz was popular. Davis did an amazing job with the storyline and plot. This thriller took me on a wild ride full of twists and turns. Davis explores issues racism, sexism, and entitlement. She did an amazing job with the characters and what is was like not only being black or white during that time period, but also what it was like being a woman who wanted to be more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what Davis does next. Thank you NetGalley, Bronzeville Books, and Allison Davis for letting me read o a copy of the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
Kay Schiffner white FMC, is a lawyer who has a love for playing and listening to jazz music. After work she likes to play at the Blue Moon, a club owned by Letisha Boone a black FMC, in the Fillmore District . Letisha is wrongly being accused of murdering real estate agent Marvin Wright, they had gotten into an argument before his unaliving. Letisha is being framed and knows she isn't getting out of jail until either she confesses to the murder or evidence that proves that she didn't do it is found. Kay facing danger at every corner, puts her life on the line and decides to become her lawyer. She along with the help of investigator Thursday Zimpel, are determined to find out the truth and get justice for Letisha.
This story takes place in 1950s San Francisco and takes you back to a different time of organized crime, politics, culture, when racial tensions were high, and women were trying to break free from being seen as less than, in a man dominated world, and jazz was popular. Davis did an amazing job with the storyline and plot. This thriller took me on a wild ride full of twists and turns. Davis explores issues racism, sexism, and entitlement. She did an amazing job with the characters and what is was like not only being black or white during that time period, but also what it was like being a woman who wanted to be more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what Davis does next. Thank you NetGalley, Bronzeville Books, and Allison Davis for letting me read o a copy of the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 18, 2024
I am astounded that this is a debut novel! It's an era and a location that I only had a vague knowledge of, but after reading this book, I have developed a fascination with the localised social changes of the era and it is certainly a subject for further research
The year is 1958, the place San Francisco. In a time where women were fighting to be recognised in the workplace, let alone to have careers, Kay Schiffner is a Lawyer who has a passion for Jazz and moonlights in the SF Fillmore District, not a place where an unmarried white woman was rarely seen. The owner of the club is our other protagonist, Leitisha Boone, a female business owne r who is also fighting to retain her business against bigotry and bias against independant women in the 50s, amidst the civil rights movement in the US
San Francisco was going through a period of gentrification, where the poorest areas were being taken over and redeveloped by the affluent minority, who have no qualms at all about how they get what they want, even framing someone for murder. The story follows Kay fighting for justince for Leitisha, through the darkest underbelly of politics, wealth and corrupt police, risking her job and her life
This book is absolutely outstanding. As a debut, it is perfection. The plot is elegant and balances well between the two protagonists, the personalities are well defined and the narrative is descriptive and well researched. I really, really enjoyed this gritty yet elegant masterpiece
Thank you to Netgalley, Bronzeville Books, and Allison A Davis for this impressive and immersive ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
The year is 1958, the place San Francisco. In a time where women were fighting to be recognised in the workplace, let alone to have careers, Kay Schiffner is a Lawyer who has a passion for Jazz and moonlights in the SF Fillmore District, not a place where an unmarried white woman was rarely seen. The owner of the club is our other protagonist, Leitisha Boone, a female business owne r who is also fighting to retain her business against bigotry and bias against independant women in the 50s, amidst the civil rights movement in the US
San Francisco was going through a period of gentrification, where the poorest areas were being taken over and redeveloped by the affluent minority, who have no qualms at all about how they get what they want, even framing someone for murder. The story follows Kay fighting for justince for Leitisha, through the darkest underbelly of politics, wealth and corrupt police, risking her job and her life
This book is absolutely outstanding. As a debut, it is perfection. The plot is elegant and balances well between the two protagonists, the personalities are well defined and the narrative is descriptive and well researched. I really, really enjoyed this gritty yet elegant masterpiece
Thank you to Netgalley, Bronzeville Books, and Allison A Davis for this impressive and immersive ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
March 13, 2024
I love a good mystery book, even if 99% of the time, my guess as to who the killer is is so far off the mark. (Watching Midsomer Murders with my dad every time I would make a guess who the killer was, they would be the next victim).
But Not for Me, is the debut novel of Allison A. Davis, a mystery set in San Fransico in 1958. A wealthy Black man has been murdered, and succesful Black businesswoman is being framed. Kay Schiffner and Thursday Zimpel are trying to find the real killer, bust must carefully navigate through politics, organised crime, and a mole to uncover the truth.
Reading this I found myself frustrated at all the roadblocks that were put in Kay's way. Set in 1958, it's a time when most women were expected to be quiet, respectable housewives. Kay however is a practising lawyer, with a love of playing jazz piano, which in the times this book is set just wasn't heard of, however, she knew what she needed to do, and seeing her transform from unwilling participant to vocal support was inspiring.
Thursday Zimpel was an interesting character that I enjoyed reading about. Rather than dismissing Kay outright, he actually valued her work, and what she was doing, and whilst he was exasperated at the danger she put herself in, he knew that trying to disuade her from doing what she felt was right was futile. He had an air about him that made people happy to talk to him, and were able to confide in him when other cops didn't care about doing the work, depending on who the crime affected.
Leitisha Boone was such a strong characetr. Whilst we don't get much information about what had happened whilst she in jail, the kind of things that she was subjected to are briefly mentioned, and honestly they were heartbreaking to read. Along with having to deal with what she did, having a lawyer only after she had already been in jail for a while, who didn't believe that she was innocent, and wasn't doing all they could to help her was so frustrating, but she held herself with such dignity and when she finally got released, and finallly got to tell Saul exactly what she thought it was so good, I nearly cheered.
The characetrs are really the backbone of this story and Davis has written chracters so good that I'm hoping we see more of them soon. The backdrop of San Fransico in 1958 was enjoyable and having it not only be a way of being an issue for the characters, but having them use it to their advantage was so well executed. The only let down for me was at times the story was a bit confusing, (which I'm sure on a re-read will be fixed), and I felt like the mystery got solved a little bit quietly. I love a good plot twist, and I felt as though the characters knew who the killer was the whole time, and there was never a moemnt I was like a-ha! which was a little bit of a disappointment.
All in all its a 3.5 star for me, and I look forward to reading more of Davis' works in the future.
Thanks in advance to NetGalley, Allison A. Davies, and Bronzeville, for the opportunity to read this early copy. All thoughts are my own.
But Not for Me, is the debut novel of Allison A. Davis, a mystery set in San Fransico in 1958. A wealthy Black man has been murdered, and succesful Black businesswoman is being framed. Kay Schiffner and Thursday Zimpel are trying to find the real killer, bust must carefully navigate through politics, organised crime, and a mole to uncover the truth.
Reading this I found myself frustrated at all the roadblocks that were put in Kay's way. Set in 1958, it's a time when most women were expected to be quiet, respectable housewives. Kay however is a practising lawyer, with a love of playing jazz piano, which in the times this book is set just wasn't heard of, however, she knew what she needed to do, and seeing her transform from unwilling participant to vocal support was inspiring.
Thursday Zimpel was an interesting character that I enjoyed reading about. Rather than dismissing Kay outright, he actually valued her work, and what she was doing, and whilst he was exasperated at the danger she put herself in, he knew that trying to disuade her from doing what she felt was right was futile. He had an air about him that made people happy to talk to him, and were able to confide in him when other cops didn't care about doing the work, depending on who the crime affected.
Leitisha Boone was such a strong characetr. Whilst we don't get much information about what had happened whilst she in jail, the kind of things that she was subjected to are briefly mentioned, and honestly they were heartbreaking to read. Along with having to deal with what she did, having a lawyer only after she had already been in jail for a while, who didn't believe that she was innocent, and wasn't doing all they could to help her was so frustrating, but she held herself with such dignity and when she finally got released, and finallly got to tell Saul exactly what she thought it was so good, I nearly cheered.
The characetrs are really the backbone of this story and Davis has written chracters so good that I'm hoping we see more of them soon. The backdrop of San Fransico in 1958 was enjoyable and having it not only be a way of being an issue for the characters, but having them use it to their advantage was so well executed. The only let down for me was at times the story was a bit confusing, (which I'm sure on a re-read will be fixed), and I felt like the mystery got solved a little bit quietly. I love a good plot twist, and I felt as though the characters knew who the killer was the whole time, and there was never a moemnt I was like a-ha! which was a little bit of a disappointment.
All in all its a 3.5 star for me, and I look forward to reading more of Davis' works in the future.
Thanks in advance to NetGalley, Allison A. Davies, and Bronzeville, for the opportunity to read this early copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 16, 2024
BOOK: BUT NOT FOR ME
AUTHOR: ALLISON A. DAVIS
PUB DATE: 17 SEPTEMBER 2024
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
REVIEW- 4.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
I had a high expectation for this book, and I was not disappointed. I loved the storyline, characters, and the author's attention to detail. I just kept turning the pages. I wanted to know who was in charge of the redevelopment plans and the murder case. Kay and Zimpel really worked hard to discover who it was.
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
For Kay, a white female lawyer in the 1950s who also played the piano in black-owned clubs, I felt her ambiguity in representing black people. During those times, you will be under fire if you're found to be 'friendly' with black people. And for Kay, it's more difficult because if she supports, she will lose the only job she was offered. But, I'm glad that she finally made the right difficult decision. She really put all her efforts into defending the Blue Moon, the club she plays the piano at. I admired and loved her drive, courage. She was amazing, really
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
Zimpel, too, was an amazing character, just as amazing as Kay. He's a diligent police officer who saw no color and did a great job. He unwillingly partnered with Kay sometimes. I hope to see another book in this series with their relationship developing romantically. But, he and another police officer, Frank, a black one did a good job in unturning the stones and figuring out who did what. They worked well together
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
For this mystery, it's kinda different because you literally don't know who was guilty. It was very good, and I found myself solving the crime alongside them. It was really nice to read. Zimpel, Frank, and Kay were amazing detectives.
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
We also followed the POV of Miss Leitishia, the black rich owner of the Blue Moon, who was falsely accused of murder because the developers wanted to take her business and building away from her. She really suffered from a lack of representation and racism. She almost went crazy from the bad treatment. Leitishia was an amazing role model, and I learned a lot from her. She was barraged from all sides but kept her cool.
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
This book was really amazing and a masterpiece. I had POVs from black people and normal (because it's normal to not be racist) white people. All of the characters were amazing. I was not satisfied with the ending, but it was perfect for this book, considering the time it was set in.
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
I liked this book, and I hope that the author makes it a series. I want more of all the characters, Kay, Zimpel, and Frank. You should definitely read this.
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
AUTHOR: ALLISON A. DAVIS
PUB DATE: 17 SEPTEMBER 2024
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
REVIEW- 4.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
I had a high expectation for this book, and I was not disappointed. I loved the storyline, characters, and the author's attention to detail. I just kept turning the pages. I wanted to know who was in charge of the redevelopment plans and the murder case. Kay and Zimpel really worked hard to discover who it was.
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
For Kay, a white female lawyer in the 1950s who also played the piano in black-owned clubs, I felt her ambiguity in representing black people. During those times, you will be under fire if you're found to be 'friendly' with black people. And for Kay, it's more difficult because if she supports, she will lose the only job she was offered. But, I'm glad that she finally made the right difficult decision. She really put all her efforts into defending the Blue Moon, the club she plays the piano at. I admired and loved her drive, courage. She was amazing, really
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
Zimpel, too, was an amazing character, just as amazing as Kay. He's a diligent police officer who saw no color and did a great job. He unwillingly partnered with Kay sometimes. I hope to see another book in this series with their relationship developing romantically. But, he and another police officer, Frank, a black one did a good job in unturning the stones and figuring out who did what. They worked well together
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
For this mystery, it's kinda different because you literally don't know who was guilty. It was very good, and I found myself solving the crime alongside them. It was really nice to read. Zimpel, Frank, and Kay were amazing detectives.
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
We also followed the POV of Miss Leitishia, the black rich owner of the Blue Moon, who was falsely accused of murder because the developers wanted to take her business and building away from her. She really suffered from a lack of representation and racism. She almost went crazy from the bad treatment. Leitishia was an amazing role model, and I learned a lot from her. She was barraged from all sides but kept her cool.
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
This book was really amazing and a masterpiece. I had POVs from black people and normal (because it's normal to not be racist) white people. All of the characters were amazing. I was not satisfied with the ending, but it was perfect for this book, considering the time it was set in.
👩🏽🤝👩🏼⚖️
I liked this book, and I hope that the author makes it a series. I want more of all the characters, Kay, Zimpel, and Frank. You should definitely read this.
⚖️👩🏽🤝👩🏼
June 1, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
But Not for Me is a well written debut historical mystery series starter by Allison A. Davis. Released 17th Sept 2024, it's 362 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.
This is an unflinching, realistically told, historically accurate noir mystery set in San Francisco of 1958. Told around a framework of two women, a white lawyer, fighting an uphill battle to prove herself every day who finds release and fulfillment as a jazz musician in the jazz club owned and run by the second woman who is black, resilient, and tough. They're often uneasy allies.
The book is full of the corruption, racism, sexism, and racial tensions of the time period, especially against the backdrop of gentrification, forced relocation, and police/government corruption. It's quite difficult to read in places; the author doesn't flinch from writing directly and openly about the rot and criminal exploitation of those in power against pretty much anyone who wasn't white and male.
The denouement and resolution are self contained in this novel, but there are open hints at a continuing story. The ending was as expected, but still frustrating. Excellently well written throughout.
Four and a half stars. Well worth a read, especially for fans of historical noir. Not derivative at all, but fans of Chandler, James M. Cain, Dorothy Hughes et. al. will find something to enjoy here. High praise, indeed. Quite astounding that it's apparently a debut effort.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
But Not for Me is a well written debut historical mystery series starter by Allison A. Davis. Released 17th Sept 2024, it's 362 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.
This is an unflinching, realistically told, historically accurate noir mystery set in San Francisco of 1958. Told around a framework of two women, a white lawyer, fighting an uphill battle to prove herself every day who finds release and fulfillment as a jazz musician in the jazz club owned and run by the second woman who is black, resilient, and tough. They're often uneasy allies.
The book is full of the corruption, racism, sexism, and racial tensions of the time period, especially against the backdrop of gentrification, forced relocation, and police/government corruption. It's quite difficult to read in places; the author doesn't flinch from writing directly and openly about the rot and criminal exploitation of those in power against pretty much anyone who wasn't white and male.
The denouement and resolution are self contained in this novel, but there are open hints at a continuing story. The ending was as expected, but still frustrating. Excellently well written throughout.
Four and a half stars. Well worth a read, especially for fans of historical noir. Not derivative at all, but fans of Chandler, James M. Cain, Dorothy Hughes et. al. will find something to enjoy here. High praise, indeed. Quite astounding that it's apparently a debut effort.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
September 16, 2024
I have to admit that I never expect a whole lot out of a debut novel, but I was very pleasantly surprised with this one. The story itself was so interesting and the pacing was excellent. It was set in 1958 San Francisco, with a main character who was a woman lawyer, something that was almost unheard of at the time. Kay Schiffner was a woman in a man's world, for sure, but at night she was "playing jazz at the Blue Moon in San Francisco’s Fillmore District, a neighborhood where good white women weren’t supposed to go." One night, the club's owner, Leitisha Boone, another woman who is trying to make it in a man's world, is arrested for the murder of a man she just happened to argue with right before he was killed, and Kay, who was initially reticent to get involved due to her own precarious situation, sets her mind to finding out what really happened when it becomes apparent that Leitisha is being framed and isn't about to get out of jail until she confesses or someone finds evidence that proves unequivocally that she didn't murder anyone. Even though Kay faces danger at every turn, she doesn't give up, and continues to investigate with the help of a police investigator who is always trying to keep her safe, and a lawyer she befriends.
There is so much more to this book that I can't list because I don't want to give anything away, but trust me when I say, this book is definitely worth your time.
I highly recommend But Not for Me to all my readers.
5/5 stars.
*** I would like to thank NetGalley, Bronzeville Books, and Allison A. Davis for the opportunity to read and review this book.
There is so much more to this book that I can't list because I don't want to give anything away, but trust me when I say, this book is definitely worth your time.
I highly recommend But Not for Me to all my readers.
5/5 stars.
*** I would like to thank NetGalley, Bronzeville Books, and Allison A. Davis for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 30, 2024
1958, Kay Shiffner, a lawyer and a jazz pianist, tries to navigate her way through a world that expects women to not do those 2 things and become mothers and housewives instead. The club where Kay plays, The Blue Moon, is being threatened by redevelopment. The club is owned by Leitisha Boonen the only Black female club owner in the neighbourhood.
At some point Letisha is arrested for the murder on her landlord. Kay starts searching for the truth and finds a new vocation. She puts (aspects of her) her own life at stake and is being confronted with different kinds of corrupted people. At the same time she can count on other people, such as Michael Zorn, a fellow lawyer, and Thursday Zimpel, a police inspector, which provides a nice dynamic.
I love how the challenges for women in those days are portrayed in this book: the burden of patriarchical expectations, the remarks, the treatment they get... I just read another ARC about the American feminist movement and everything Muriel Fox explains in there, is reflected very well in this fictional story: doing work as a lawyer, but the credits go to a man because a client may not want it, a black woman being framed for murder because of corruption, the general racism they experienced, the minor everyday issues...
The book also shows how corruption and gentrification work and how people from minorities in the USA were affected by it in the late fifties. It's more than just a crime story and that's what I enjoyed the most.
Thank you Allison A. Davis, Bronzeville books and NetGalley for this ARC!
At some point Letisha is arrested for the murder on her landlord. Kay starts searching for the truth and finds a new vocation. She puts (aspects of her) her own life at stake and is being confronted with different kinds of corrupted people. At the same time she can count on other people, such as Michael Zorn, a fellow lawyer, and Thursday Zimpel, a police inspector, which provides a nice dynamic.
I love how the challenges for women in those days are portrayed in this book: the burden of patriarchical expectations, the remarks, the treatment they get... I just read another ARC about the American feminist movement and everything Muriel Fox explains in there, is reflected very well in this fictional story: doing work as a lawyer, but the credits go to a man because a client may not want it, a black woman being framed for murder because of corruption, the general racism they experienced, the minor everyday issues...
The book also shows how corruption and gentrification work and how people from minorities in the USA were affected by it in the late fifties. It's more than just a crime story and that's what I enjoyed the most.
Thank you Allison A. Davis, Bronzeville books and NetGalley for this ARC!
August 16, 2024
If you like historical fiction, strong female characters with surprising plot twists, this is a book for you.
But Not For Me is a debut novel from Allison Davis and someone I will definitely check out in the future. The story focuses on San Franciso in the 1950s and provides insight into the culture and politics of that time with a mystery focused on the murder of a prominent figure in the jazz scene.
Kay Schifer, a lawyer by day and a jazz musician by night, frequents a club in the Fillmore District owned by Letisha Boone, a black female. Both Kay and Letisha are strong female characters fighting for women’s rights in male-dominated world. Kay and Letisha’s worlds collide when Kay is trying to defend Letisha, who is wrongly accused of murder. As Kay does her best to clear Letisha’s name, she makes some significant sacrifices and puts her own life at risk. The story also explores the racial tensions, treatment of Blacks along with major injustices designed to remove Blacks from the Fillmore District.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed is this review are my own.
#NetGalley #ButNotForMe #AllisonADavis
But Not For Me is a debut novel from Allison Davis and someone I will definitely check out in the future. The story focuses on San Franciso in the 1950s and provides insight into the culture and politics of that time with a mystery focused on the murder of a prominent figure in the jazz scene.
Kay Schifer, a lawyer by day and a jazz musician by night, frequents a club in the Fillmore District owned by Letisha Boone, a black female. Both Kay and Letisha are strong female characters fighting for women’s rights in male-dominated world. Kay and Letisha’s worlds collide when Kay is trying to defend Letisha, who is wrongly accused of murder. As Kay does her best to clear Letisha’s name, she makes some significant sacrifices and puts her own life at risk. The story also explores the racial tensions, treatment of Blacks along with major injustices designed to remove Blacks from the Fillmore District.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed is this review are my own.
#NetGalley #ButNotForMe #AllisonADavis
November 14, 2024
It took me a little while to finish this book, but once I really got into it, I enjoyed it. If you like historical fiction, then this book will check the boxes. It’s set in the 1950s and has strong female lead characters. Latisha is the black female jazz club owner & the white men want her building for gentrification. She isn’t going down without a fight, so they frame her for murder. Kay is a white lawyer who loves to sing in the jazz clubs but unknown to her white counterparts. She feels at home & accepted when she’s on the stage. She also represents Latisha. My favorite plot of the book was the white detective who was really interested in finding out the truth and actually did his job.
The book was well written. Mystery usually isn’t my first choice, but this book grabbed me. Sometimes i have a hard time reading books where racism is very prevalent because Of the way that African Americans were treated badly. This book highlights gentrification & the lengths they went to take a black woman’s property. Read it! It’s a good book
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher & of course the author for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The book was well written. Mystery usually isn’t my first choice, but this book grabbed me. Sometimes i have a hard time reading books where racism is very prevalent because Of the way that African Americans were treated badly. This book highlights gentrification & the lengths they went to take a black woman’s property. Read it! It’s a good book
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher & of course the author for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 10, 2024
Kay is a single female attorney in 1958 San Francisco. In her spare time, she dreams of being a jazz piano player and fulfills this in The Fillmore area. She is white, The Fillmore is predominantly black, but she feels more at home there than anywhere else. I love the story of her fighting for herself to both be considered equal as an attorney and her ability to play jazz, along with her disinterest in marriage. I love the story of the Fillmore's fight again racism, redlining, and redevelopment. I didn't like it all thrown together. It made for a bit of an unfocused story for me. As the first book in the series, I would have liked it to be more character focused. We seem to learn a lot about Kay, but the rest of the characters are still pretty undefined. I hope we get to know those around Kay better in the next books in the series!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bronzeville Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bronzeville Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
October 7, 2024
Allison has created a beautiful tapestry of diverse and vibrant characters that bring the vibrancy of San Francisco’s Fillmore District, not as it is today, but as it should have been allowed to prosper if it weren’t for the dark history of the city’s tragic redevelopment era that the story is told. In my twenty-five years in the city I only know the Filmore District as it was Pre-Covid and have been told many times by members of the community the harm caused by redistricting to the entire Fillmore neighborhood. Alison was able to capture a Fillmore I wish I could have visited described beautifully but brought to life by the interesting characters, some of whom are celebrities, and of course, the music. Jazz and blues. I would have been a regular, like Kay. Speaking of … yes, yes, and yes, more Kay, an amazing character with so many layers that the more you find out the more you realize you don’t know.
May 2, 2024
This was a fascinating murder mystery centred around two strong female character in a time where racism and sexism were so prominent. I found navigating the battle with race, politics, gender bias and greed both infuriating and empowering. It was a stark reminder of the dark history we have and how far we still need to go.
The main characters were facing a constant uphill battle with push back from family, friends, and employers for simply doing what was right. The characters were likeable and watching Kay finally stick it to the man was enjoyable even though her decisions along the way were questionable.
This was a great reminder that doing the right thing will not always be easy but will be worth it in the end.
Huge thank you to Bronzeville Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to enjoy this advanced copy.
The main characters were facing a constant uphill battle with push back from family, friends, and employers for simply doing what was right. The characters were likeable and watching Kay finally stick it to the man was enjoyable even though her decisions along the way were questionable.
This was a great reminder that doing the right thing will not always be easy but will be worth it in the end.
Huge thank you to Bronzeville Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to enjoy this advanced copy.
March 11, 2024
Set in 1950s San Francisco, a black neighborhood is being gentrified but the proper legal channels are not being followed. The story starts with the murder of a prominent black businessman, and a young lawyer named Kay risking her career (and safety) by getting to the bottom of the mystery. The owner of a place where Kay loves playing piano is wrongly accused of the murder. It takes Kay, a policeman named Thursday, and others from the community to solve the crime.
I was surprised this was a debut novel! I loved the story. All the characters were nicely fleshed out and lovable. I loved the references to baseball and music and other things in the area at that time. I really enjoyed reading this one, and appreciate NetGalley for letting me read it early.
I was surprised this was a debut novel! I loved the story. All the characters were nicely fleshed out and lovable. I loved the references to baseball and music and other things in the area at that time. I really enjoyed reading this one, and appreciate NetGalley for letting me read it early.
August 11, 2024
Kay Schiffner is an adventurous lawyer and a devoted jazz enthusiast. Leitisha Boone is a formidable Black club owner who works hard to keep her elegant jazz club afloat against threats of redevelopment and worse until she is accused of murder. Kay joins into that dangerous investigation with SFPD Inspector Thursday Zimpel who is as jaded as any of his rank at that time. The story puts itself clearly in the crosshairs of a particularly disgusting time in history but is well paced and conveys the ugliness of politics as well as the beauty of the area and the abiding good deep within the major characters. We need to remember the past, so we aren't tempted to repeat it.
Very well done and I hope for more to come.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Bronzeville Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Very well done and I hope for more to come.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Bronzeville Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
October 25, 2025
In this richly-layered debut by Allison Davis you will fall into the tumultuous world of 1958 San Francisco, the “Harlem of the West.” Kay Schiffner is a lawyer, a white jazz pianist in the Black clubs of Fillmore, and a single female living alone – all outside the ‘rules’ of the time for women. A murder kicks off this story, but it is the incomprehensible unfairness separating whites from non-white that draws Kay in. You will fall for stubborn and fearless Kay, who only wants “to play jazz and let the world be fair.” At its heart, this story is about justice, racism, and doing the right thing.
July 27, 2024
This debut novel is so much more than a well paced crime novel with great characters. This historical novel focuses on the gentrification of the Fillmore district in San Francisco in 1958 and explores the racial injustice and misogyny of the era. Full of engaging characters and an action packed whodunit, this one kept me reading late into the night. I didn't want to leave these characters behind. We can only hope this is the beginning of a series. Highly recommended
Thanks to NetGalley and Bronzeville Books for an advanced reader copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bronzeville Books for an advanced reader copy.
May 25, 2024
This was a gripping thoroughly enjoyable read that raised your hackles at the sense of injustice. Set in 1950's San Francisco in the Fillmore area it tells the story of how big business with the help of backhanders and mafia intimidation destroyed a local community under the guise of cleaning up the streets. Murder, intrigue and racism figure prominently. The lead characters are great, a feisty female lawyer and a hardened homicide inspector. This was well worth reading.
June 30, 2024
A wonderful (presumably) start to a new series. This book is at times hard to read because it is unflinchingly accurate about how hard it was in the 1950s to be a POC, a woman, LGBTQ+ or basically anyone who wasn't a Christian white male. However, it is a whip sharp mystery/thriller with great characterization and a pleasantly twisty plot. Even the characters who are "good" are fully fleshed out (to the point of being occasionally jerks). I look forward to more about Kay in the future.
September 1, 2024
But Not for Me is an interesting read about two strong women fighting against all odds to maintain a place and gain respect they rightfully deserve..
Club owner Leitisha faced some extremely unjust circumstances. Despite this I admired her strength and I liked the fact she had Kay and others willing to fight for her.
Overall this was a good book. Thank you NetGalley and Bronzeville Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Club owner Leitisha faced some extremely unjust circumstances. Despite this I admired her strength and I liked the fact she had Kay and others willing to fight for her.
Overall this was a good book. Thank you NetGalley and Bronzeville Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
September 17, 2024
An excellent and solid mystery, the story of the gentrification of an area and how you had to fight for you right if you weren't white and/or male.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and it remained with me as it's a powerful story
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I thoroughly enjoyed it and it remained with me as it's a powerful story
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
September 22, 2024
This is a wonderful police procedural, murder mystery and historical fiction all rolled into one entertaining and very well researched and written package. The characters had depth and dimension which was integral in bringing the plot to life. The rich history is portrayed lovingly in these pages and provides a glimpse into the situations faced during that time.
October 24, 2024
I'm not sure why this book didn't really work for me. I definitely think it was my problem, not the book's. The writing's decent and the plot was interesting. It just never really clicked for me. It's the kind of book that I think I would like more if I try it again later.
I read an ARC of this book from NetGalley. All comments are my own.
I read an ARC of this book from NetGalley. All comments are my own.
October 28, 2024
Allison Davis has written a great story that includes the culture of the late 1950s; the music, the sports, the politics and the economic and cultural differences of the time. All of this, incorporated into an intriguing mystery. While not the typical type of book I read, it was one that I enjoyed. Thanks #NetGalley #BronzevilleBooks
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2024
A combination of a murder mystery and a poignant tale of racial injustice and prejudices, of women's struggles for freedom and recognition, set in 1950s of San Fransisco.
Complete review: https://klasikfanda.blogspot.com/2024...
Complete review: https://klasikfanda.blogspot.com/2024...
October 18, 2024
The characters are great, the plot is wonderful. A page turner. The climax is not 100% what you hope for, but that's how life is. A must read.
Incredible first novel by this suthor. Looking forward to more from her.
Incredible first novel by this suthor. Looking forward to more from her.
October 11, 2024
Learned so much about San Francisco’s Fillmore District that I never knew. Loved the lady lawyer heroine.
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