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Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth #2
Mayan Mendacity
Dr Elizabeth Pimms has a new puzzle.
What is the story behind the tiny skeletons discovered on a Guatemalan island? And how do they relate to an ancient Mayan queen?
The bones, along with other remains, are a gift for Elizabeth. But soon the giver reveals his true nature. An enraged colleague then questions Elizabeth’s family history. Elizabeth seeks DNA evidence to put all skeletons to rest.
A pregnant enemy, a crystal skull, a New York foodie, and an intruder in Elizabeth’s phrenic library variously aid or interrupt Elizabeth’s attempts to solve mysteries both ancient and personal.
With archaeological intrigue, forensic insight and cosy comfort, Mayan Mendacity takes readers back into the world of Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth. Really cold cases.
What is the story behind the tiny skeletons discovered on a Guatemalan island? And how do they relate to an ancient Mayan queen?
The bones, along with other remains, are a gift for Elizabeth. But soon the giver reveals his true nature. An enraged colleague then questions Elizabeth’s family history. Elizabeth seeks DNA evidence to put all skeletons to rest.
A pregnant enemy, a crystal skull, a New York foodie, and an intruder in Elizabeth’s phrenic library variously aid or interrupt Elizabeth’s attempts to solve mysteries both ancient and personal.
With archaeological intrigue, forensic insight and cosy comfort, Mayan Mendacity takes readers back into the world of Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth. Really cold cases.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2016
About the author
L.J.M. Owen
8 books89 followersDr L.J.M. Owen has escaped dark and shadowy days as a public servant to explore the comparatively lighter side of life: murder, mystery and forgotten women's history. An Australian author, archaeologist and librarian with a PhD in palaeogenetics, L.J. speaks five languages and has travelled extensively through Europe and Asia.
L.J. is the Festival Director of the Terror Australis Readers and Writers Festival, a celebration of literature and literacy in southern Tasmania.
In addition to writing and festival directing, L.J. is a panellist, interviewer, workshop provider and public speaker. Rare moments of free time are spent experimenting with ancient recipes…under strict feline supervision.
The Great Divide
Twisted Secrets. Hidden Victims. Monstrous Crimes.
L.J.'s new novel, The Great Divide (November 2019), introduces newcomer Jake Hunter as he tracks a killer through a fog of lies in small town Tasmania.
The Great Divide is gripping, atmospheric rural crime that meshes L.J.’s love of mystery – including rural-set Australian thrillers, classic Agatha Christie and forensic crime such as Kathy Reichs’ Temperance Brennan series – and her experiences in small town Australia. The novel has both personal and social meaning, as well as that page-turning quality that L.J.’s readers love.
Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth
A passionate advocate for reclaiming women’s history, L.J. incorporates human genetics, forensic science and ancient cultures in her Australian-set mystery series: Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth.
The first book in the series, Olmec Obituary, introduces readers to a young Dr Elizabeth Pimms, an archaeologist-librarian who solves ancient mysteries from across the globe. Struggling with grief, loss and difficult colleagues, Elizabeth searches for the identity of those buried in a royal Olmec cemetery discovered deep in the Mexican jungle.
The second book in the series, Mayan Mendacity, explores the ancient world of Maya politics, scribes and female rulers.
The third, Egyptian Enigma, plunges Elizabeth into a world of missing mummies, forgotten female Pharaohs and modern cannibals.
The Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth series. Really cold cases
L.J. is the Festival Director of the Terror Australis Readers and Writers Festival, a celebration of literature and literacy in southern Tasmania.
In addition to writing and festival directing, L.J. is a panellist, interviewer, workshop provider and public speaker. Rare moments of free time are spent experimenting with ancient recipes…under strict feline supervision.
The Great Divide
Twisted Secrets. Hidden Victims. Monstrous Crimes.
L.J.'s new novel, The Great Divide (November 2019), introduces newcomer Jake Hunter as he tracks a killer through a fog of lies in small town Tasmania.
The Great Divide is gripping, atmospheric rural crime that meshes L.J.’s love of mystery – including rural-set Australian thrillers, classic Agatha Christie and forensic crime such as Kathy Reichs’ Temperance Brennan series – and her experiences in small town Australia. The novel has both personal and social meaning, as well as that page-turning quality that L.J.’s readers love.
Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth
A passionate advocate for reclaiming women’s history, L.J. incorporates human genetics, forensic science and ancient cultures in her Australian-set mystery series: Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth.
The first book in the series, Olmec Obituary, introduces readers to a young Dr Elizabeth Pimms, an archaeologist-librarian who solves ancient mysteries from across the globe. Struggling with grief, loss and difficult colleagues, Elizabeth searches for the identity of those buried in a royal Olmec cemetery discovered deep in the Mexican jungle.
The second book in the series, Mayan Mendacity, explores the ancient world of Maya politics, scribes and female rulers.
The third, Egyptian Enigma, plunges Elizabeth into a world of missing mummies, forgotten female Pharaohs and modern cannibals.
The Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth series. Really cold cases
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
January 22, 2018
After finishing the first book in this series, Olmec Obituary, was I quite keen to start the next book. So, of course, it took me a little over one year to get to book two. I finally decided to read this book because I got book three in the series, Egyptian Enigma, and I felt that now is the time to read this one and get straight to book three (which I now have started to read).
I love Indiana Jones and I wanted to be an Archaeologist when I was younger. So, books that future Archaeologists and mysteries are really up my alley! Dr. Elizabeth Pimms had to in the first book give up her dreams of being an Egyptologist to support her family after her father died. In this book, is Elizabeth still missing lost career (at the moment), but both her work and family life have improved. Although the return of her fiance is not the joyous moment she had expected. Thankfully a new project distracts her. Bones have been found on a Guatemalan island, and just as in the first book will we get flashback back to the past, in this case to the Mayas. I just love how the two storylines intertwine throughout the book.
It was a great joy to once again step back into Elizabeth Pimms world. I read the book during one day because the story was so enjoyable and interesting. I loved both the mystery of the skeletons as well as the drama in Elizabeth's world. This is a great series and I recommend it warmly!
I want to thank Bonnier Publishing Australia for providing me with a free copy through Netgalley for an honest review!
I love Indiana Jones and I wanted to be an Archaeologist when I was younger. So, books that future Archaeologists and mysteries are really up my alley! Dr. Elizabeth Pimms had to in the first book give up her dreams of being an Egyptologist to support her family after her father died. In this book, is Elizabeth still missing lost career (at the moment), but both her work and family life have improved. Although the return of her fiance is not the joyous moment she had expected. Thankfully a new project distracts her. Bones have been found on a Guatemalan island, and just as in the first book will we get flashback back to the past, in this case to the Mayas. I just love how the two storylines intertwine throughout the book.
It was a great joy to once again step back into Elizabeth Pimms world. I read the book during one day because the story was so enjoyable and interesting. I loved both the mystery of the skeletons as well as the drama in Elizabeth's world. This is a great series and I recommend it warmly!
I want to thank Bonnier Publishing Australia for providing me with a free copy through Netgalley for an honest review!
October 29, 2016
4.5★s
Mayan Mendacity is the second book in the Dr Pimms, Intermillenial Sleuth series by Australian author, L J M Owen. After a separation of almost two years, Dr Elizabeth Pimms, archaeologist, paleo-geneticist and librarian is very much looking forward to a joyous reunion with her boyfriend, Luke. And maybe an extra nice surprise involving a ring? So when things turn out very differently, Elizabeth is determined not to wallow in self-pity, but instead, throw her energies into analysing the Mayan skeletal remains he has brought from Guatemala.
Director of the site, Diane Marsh is demanding, but Elizabeth is confident she can meet her high expectations. But what she doesn’t count on is distractions: younger brother Matty’s surgery causes life-threatening complications; Mai, a colleague at the library, makes disturbing claims about Elizabeth’s father; and someone is interfering with the bones in the lab. At least she can rely on certain friends and on her family to support her.
Once again, the narrative is split between two time periods: seventh century Mutul and Sa’aal in Guatemala are the setting for significant events if the life of Lady Six Sky, descendant of the Lady of Tik’al; present day Canberra is where Dr Pimms tries to unravel the mystery of sixty sets of remains from a Guatemalan sacrificial well.
Readers may have to suspend disbelief just a little at the amazing efficiency with which Dr Pimms manages to examine such a large number of bones, the rather lax security at the laboratory, and maybe also her incredibly close, harmonious and supportive extended family… As before, certain questions remain unanswered, ensuring plenty of scope for further books in this cosy crime series.
Owen’s characters develop a little more in this instalment: Elizabeth has certainly matured a bit, although still making the occasional naïve choice. Her phrenic library adds a quirky aspect: perhaps its purpose will be revealed in the next book? A wealth of information about archaeology, the Mayan culture, glyphs and genetics is fairly seamlessly incorporated into the story, there are a few intriguing mysteries and there is an interesting twist.
Owen kindly includes a glossary of technical terms, a lexicon of foreign language phrases, historical notes and book club questions, as well as six pages of mouth-watering recipes. This follow up is possibly even better than the debut novel of the series, so readers are bound to look forward to the next instalment, set in Egypt: Alexandrian Athenaeum.
With thanks to Echo Publishing for this copy to read and review
Mayan Mendacity is the second book in the Dr Pimms, Intermillenial Sleuth series by Australian author, L J M Owen. After a separation of almost two years, Dr Elizabeth Pimms, archaeologist, paleo-geneticist and librarian is very much looking forward to a joyous reunion with her boyfriend, Luke. And maybe an extra nice surprise involving a ring? So when things turn out very differently, Elizabeth is determined not to wallow in self-pity, but instead, throw her energies into analysing the Mayan skeletal remains he has brought from Guatemala.
Director of the site, Diane Marsh is demanding, but Elizabeth is confident she can meet her high expectations. But what she doesn’t count on is distractions: younger brother Matty’s surgery causes life-threatening complications; Mai, a colleague at the library, makes disturbing claims about Elizabeth’s father; and someone is interfering with the bones in the lab. At least she can rely on certain friends and on her family to support her.
Once again, the narrative is split between two time periods: seventh century Mutul and Sa’aal in Guatemala are the setting for significant events if the life of Lady Six Sky, descendant of the Lady of Tik’al; present day Canberra is where Dr Pimms tries to unravel the mystery of sixty sets of remains from a Guatemalan sacrificial well.
Readers may have to suspend disbelief just a little at the amazing efficiency with which Dr Pimms manages to examine such a large number of bones, the rather lax security at the laboratory, and maybe also her incredibly close, harmonious and supportive extended family… As before, certain questions remain unanswered, ensuring plenty of scope for further books in this cosy crime series.
Owen’s characters develop a little more in this instalment: Elizabeth has certainly matured a bit, although still making the occasional naïve choice. Her phrenic library adds a quirky aspect: perhaps its purpose will be revealed in the next book? A wealth of information about archaeology, the Mayan culture, glyphs and genetics is fairly seamlessly incorporated into the story, there are a few intriguing mysteries and there is an interesting twist.
Owen kindly includes a glossary of technical terms, a lexicon of foreign language phrases, historical notes and book club questions, as well as six pages of mouth-watering recipes. This follow up is possibly even better than the debut novel of the series, so readers are bound to look forward to the next instalment, set in Egypt: Alexandrian Athenaeum.
With thanks to Echo Publishing for this copy to read and review
October 24, 2016
Dr Elizabeth Pimms was looking forward to Luke being home from his archaeological dig that had kept them apart for so long. She wasn’t expecting the shock of what he told her when she met him in the laboratory of the archaeology building in Canberra. But the bones from the Guatemalan dig which he needed her to research and uncover the hidden secrets of the Mayan past thrilled Elizabeth –she was determined not to let Luke’s revelation stop her doing her job.
As Elizabeth probed the boxes of bones, separating and itemising, she discovered a lot of the remains were of children. But there were some anomalies as well – it would take her a lot of painstaking hours and lack of sleep to discover the long forgotten secrets – but she would do it. But when her laboratory was visited by an intruder who obviously wanted to show Elizabeth in a bad light; then a colleague started accusing her of shocking things, Elizabeth wondered how much more she could take. Would the final straw be her little brother Matty’s dangerous surgery? Would she fail to get her papers in by the deadline?
Mayan Mendacity by Aussie author L.J.M. Owen is the second in the Dr Pimms series and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Set in Canberra, Australia, the visual journey back in time with Lady Six Sky and her Mayan court; the horrors of their day (filing teeth to points, shaping the newborn skull until it was an oval shape as an adult) and the mystery of the current day made for an excellent and fast-paced read. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
As Elizabeth probed the boxes of bones, separating and itemising, she discovered a lot of the remains were of children. But there were some anomalies as well – it would take her a lot of painstaking hours and lack of sleep to discover the long forgotten secrets – but she would do it. But when her laboratory was visited by an intruder who obviously wanted to show Elizabeth in a bad light; then a colleague started accusing her of shocking things, Elizabeth wondered how much more she could take. Would the final straw be her little brother Matty’s dangerous surgery? Would she fail to get her papers in by the deadline?
Mayan Mendacity by Aussie author L.J.M. Owen is the second in the Dr Pimms series and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Set in Canberra, Australia, the visual journey back in time with Lady Six Sky and her Mayan court; the horrors of their day (filing teeth to points, shaping the newborn skull until it was an oval shape as an adult) and the mystery of the current day made for an excellent and fast-paced read. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
September 29, 2016
Love, love, love it and glad I didn't have to wait too long to get book 2. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
I thought the story of Lady Six Sky was fascinating. I enjoyed the teasing out of all the clues to work out what happened in the past. I looked up her story on google and it was amazing. The Mayans were a fascinating culture and I enjoyed learning about them. I recommend not googling until after reading the book though.
There are a few family mysteries as well as the archaeology ones which is good for me. I like some personal things happening as well as the crime or history things. It's hard not to write spoilers but I was happy with how things turned out in this book. I was worried it was going to go off in a weird direction but it didn't. I had to look some other things up on google to check they were real and they are, so I learnt a lot more about other things, but I can't say what without spoilers.
I can see some other readers commented on book 1 they don't like Elizabeth, the main character, but I kinda like her and I like her family. My family has some introverted people in it who get all wound up inside when they have to deal with things so the way the characters behave makes sense to me, as in even if it's not the best way to handle a situation it rings true.
I love the new recipes in the back and the added book club questions. I made two of the soups from the first book and they were both yum.
Can't wait for book 3 because I have a feeling I know what is going to happen next when Elizabeth goes back to Egypt.
I thought the story of Lady Six Sky was fascinating. I enjoyed the teasing out of all the clues to work out what happened in the past. I looked up her story on google and it was amazing. The Mayans were a fascinating culture and I enjoyed learning about them. I recommend not googling until after reading the book though.
There are a few family mysteries as well as the archaeology ones which is good for me. I like some personal things happening as well as the crime or history things. It's hard not to write spoilers but I was happy with how things turned out in this book. I was worried it was going to go off in a weird direction but it didn't. I had to look some other things up on google to check they were real and they are, so I learnt a lot more about other things, but I can't say what without spoilers.
I can see some other readers commented on book 1 they don't like Elizabeth, the main character, but I kinda like her and I like her family. My family has some introverted people in it who get all wound up inside when they have to deal with things so the way the characters behave makes sense to me, as in even if it's not the best way to handle a situation it rings true.
I love the new recipes in the back and the added book club questions. I made two of the soups from the first book and they were both yum.
Can't wait for book 3 because I have a feeling I know what is going to happen next when Elizabeth goes back to Egypt.
December 14, 2021
Mayan Medacity picks up from where Olmec Obituary finishes, with archaeologist Dr Elizabeth Pimms living with her colourful family in Canberra while working in the University library while she thinks about what she wants to do in the future. When she's given the opportunity to work as a weekend volunteer on some human bones brought back from a Mayan excavation in Guatemala, she jumps at the chance. It turns out she has quite a mystery to solve and will need all her ability as an amateur sleuth to unravel the puzzle.
This is a fun cosy mystery with the events leading up to the mystery revealed to the reader through passages inserted between chapters. Elizabeth also has a mystery to solve within her own family which results in some surprises for her. I liked Elizabeth more in this book as she seems to be acting more her age and deals maturely with a cheating boyfriend. A fair bit of license is taken with the way Elizabeth is able to be involved in the research, the lack of oversight of the research leader and lax regard to protecting the samples, but the archaeological details are nevertheless interesting.
This is a fun cosy mystery with the events leading up to the mystery revealed to the reader through passages inserted between chapters. Elizabeth also has a mystery to solve within her own family which results in some surprises for her. I liked Elizabeth more in this book as she seems to be acting more her age and deals maturely with a cheating boyfriend. A fair bit of license is taken with the way Elizabeth is able to be involved in the research, the lack of oversight of the research leader and lax regard to protecting the samples, but the archaeological details are nevertheless interesting.
January 25, 2025
I love the Mayan era, one of my favourite civilizations in history. There is just so much to learn, so much yet to be discovered, and of course, the magnificent temples and structures left behind.
Because of this, I am drawn to any genre of book concerning the Maya, be they fictional or non-fictional. So it is with disappointment that I can say I did not enjoy this book. Disappointing because it is Mayan-related AND because it is written by an Australian.
The positives to come from this read are based on the knowledge and research that the author has performed, L.J.M Owen is trained in archaeology and librarianship so she does know what she is writing about. Unfortunately, the text has been let down by the writing which I found to be very clunky. There seems to be a struggle to flow scenes together, meaning that often a scene is brought to an end by just skipping ahead to another scene where the same character is in a different place with different people after some time has elapsed.
There is also an overbearing amount of telling rather than showing. The author needs to insert her knowledge into the story to make an understanding so often she does it with the MC just telling something or a responding character 'adding' their knowledge.
Perhaps the hardest part for me was the last chapter, it felt like the chapter that should not be. The story was over but we continued on all for what seemed like an opportunity to link to an upcoming book. The family Christmas gathering just felt forced and unnecessary.
If you are a male with a thin skin I would avoid this book at all costs. Our gender cops a whacking with only distant male friends and the Grandfather avoiding punishment. This is particularly clear when the author, again in the unnecessary last chapter, goes to lengths to explain how the board game, Monopoly, was invented by a woman but was usurped by men.
Because of this, I am drawn to any genre of book concerning the Maya, be they fictional or non-fictional. So it is with disappointment that I can say I did not enjoy this book. Disappointing because it is Mayan-related AND because it is written by an Australian.
The positives to come from this read are based on the knowledge and research that the author has performed, L.J.M Owen is trained in archaeology and librarianship so she does know what she is writing about. Unfortunately, the text has been let down by the writing which I found to be very clunky. There seems to be a struggle to flow scenes together, meaning that often a scene is brought to an end by just skipping ahead to another scene where the same character is in a different place with different people after some time has elapsed.
There is also an overbearing amount of telling rather than showing. The author needs to insert her knowledge into the story to make an understanding so often she does it with the MC just telling something or a responding character 'adding' their knowledge.
Perhaps the hardest part for me was the last chapter, it felt like the chapter that should not be. The story was over but we continued on all for what seemed like an opportunity to link to an upcoming book. The family Christmas gathering just felt forced and unnecessary.
If you are a male with a thin skin I would avoid this book at all costs. Our gender cops a whacking with only distant male friends and the Grandfather avoiding punishment. This is particularly clear when the author, again in the unnecessary last chapter, goes to lengths to explain how the board game, Monopoly, was invented by a woman but was usurped by men.
October 2, 2016
I read this book and the first one in the series because it was said to be similar to the Amelia Peabody series. My reviews for both books are the same and thank you to NetGalley for the books.
Even though the protagonist in this series Elizabeth has a different personality to Amelia's these books reminded me of Crocodile on the Sandbank. Elizabeth Pimms could be Amelia Peabody's long lost Australian cousin.
The archaeology in these books was as good if not better than Amelia Peabody as there was more of it and extra reading and notes in the back. The Olmecs are a culture I hadn't heard of before so at first I thought they were fictional but then found out they were real so that made the first book even more interesting. The Mayans were also interesting. I found the detailed description of the skeletons and teeth intriguing, like the descriptions in the Temperance Brennan series which I also enjoy.
In the Amelia Peabody books Amelia is 32 at the beginning while Elizabeth is only 25 so I think maybe Elizabeth becomes more like Amelia by the time she's 32? Maybe not a total personality transplant but different? The one thing these books don't have is a misogynist lead man like Radcliffe Emerson which I prefer. Although I love the Amelia Peabody series I never liked the misogynist characters so Dr Pimms is better in this way, I think, although they are still misogynists here.
Even though these books have a different overall feel to Amelia Peabody and Elizabeth’s family is certainly different to Amelia's I conclude it is similar enough to agree that if you like Amelia Peabody there's a good chance you will like reading Elizabeth Pimms.
Even though the protagonist in this series Elizabeth has a different personality to Amelia's these books reminded me of Crocodile on the Sandbank. Elizabeth Pimms could be Amelia Peabody's long lost Australian cousin.
The archaeology in these books was as good if not better than Amelia Peabody as there was more of it and extra reading and notes in the back. The Olmecs are a culture I hadn't heard of before so at first I thought they were fictional but then found out they were real so that made the first book even more interesting. The Mayans were also interesting. I found the detailed description of the skeletons and teeth intriguing, like the descriptions in the Temperance Brennan series which I also enjoy.
In the Amelia Peabody books Amelia is 32 at the beginning while Elizabeth is only 25 so I think maybe Elizabeth becomes more like Amelia by the time she's 32? Maybe not a total personality transplant but different? The one thing these books don't have is a misogynist lead man like Radcliffe Emerson which I prefer. Although I love the Amelia Peabody series I never liked the misogynist characters so Dr Pimms is better in this way, I think, although they are still misogynists here.
Even though these books have a different overall feel to Amelia Peabody and Elizabeth’s family is certainly different to Amelia's I conclude it is similar enough to agree that if you like Amelia Peabody there's a good chance you will like reading Elizabeth Pimms.
October 2, 2016
Like the first one, great for readers of cosy mystery and history and family drama.
Read this one in two days, after getting it from Netgallery, thank you Netgallery.
As per my review for Olmec Obituary I can say this series is a great read especially the history and the forensics. The books are well written and kept me guessing to the end. The Olmecs (first book) and Mayans were both intriguing cultures but a bit sickening and upsetting with some of their cultural practices but then maybe that's true for all cultures.
Reading these books made me feel both happy and sad because my daughter is like Elizabeth. She's bright, focussed on her work and had a tough time at school. It was painful to watch her struggle with bullying at school. The same confusion and hurt in my daughter by not knowing automatically how to get along with loud or outgoing people seems to be part of the Elizabeth character although maybe that’s not what the author intended. That seemed to change in this second book with Elizabeth making decisions faster. It’s still good to see a character that was bullied at school become the lead character in a series. My daughter will love it.
Looking forward to the next one.
Read this one in two days, after getting it from Netgallery, thank you Netgallery.
As per my review for Olmec Obituary I can say this series is a great read especially the history and the forensics. The books are well written and kept me guessing to the end. The Olmecs (first book) and Mayans were both intriguing cultures but a bit sickening and upsetting with some of their cultural practices but then maybe that's true for all cultures.
Reading these books made me feel both happy and sad because my daughter is like Elizabeth. She's bright, focussed on her work and had a tough time at school. It was painful to watch her struggle with bullying at school. The same confusion and hurt in my daughter by not knowing automatically how to get along with loud or outgoing people seems to be part of the Elizabeth character although maybe that’s not what the author intended. That seemed to change in this second book with Elizabeth making decisions faster. It’s still good to see a character that was bullied at school become the lead character in a series. My daughter will love it.
Looking forward to the next one.
November 7, 2016
I was super excited for volume 2 in the Dr Pimms, Intermillenial Sleuth series, and it certainly didn't disappoint! The story picks up not long after the conclusion of Olmec Obituary, with Dr Elizabeth Pimms facing a new set of bones, and new developments in her personal life too. Written with heartfelt, down-to-earth gusto, the very Aussie characters and compelling mysteries propel you through the book, interspersed with the story of Lady Six Sky, a Mayan Princess. One of the best hallmarks of the series, reminiscent of Kerry Greenwood, is the strong feminist messages, including the important one that girls can grow up to be scientists and professors, no matter how male-dominated the field is. A "cozy mystery" with both style and substance, I thoroughly enjoyed Mayan Mendacity and can't wait for book #3!
November 11, 2016
This is the second of the Dr Pimms books. I enjoyed the first, Olmec Obituary, when I first read it as a good first novel by a new author. With Mayan Mendacity, author LJM Owen has found her footing.
I loved this book. Like with the first, it's cosy crime, so grab a cup of tea, curl up on the couch under a blanket, and spend a day with Elizabeth Pimms, her wonderful family, and true friends as she solves yet another 'really dead' case.
Perfect for young adult readers with a passion for crime (this isn't a sex, drugs, and rock&roll type story) or the adult wanting to escape from the hectic world we live in.
I loved this book. Like with the first, it's cosy crime, so grab a cup of tea, curl up on the couch under a blanket, and spend a day with Elizabeth Pimms, her wonderful family, and true friends as she solves yet another 'really dead' case.
Perfect for young adult readers with a passion for crime (this isn't a sex, drugs, and rock&roll type story) or the adult wanting to escape from the hectic world we live in.
January 9, 2017
It was great to settle down into a cosy armchair and relax with the next instalment of Dr. Pimms. Already I can see that the author's style has developed as the characters are well fleshed-out and the narrative carries more smoothly.
I found myself easily transported back to the Mayan civilisation with the tales of Lady Six Sky. I also liked how the author was able to juxtapose some of the issues that Elizabeth was facing in modern life with those of Lady Six Sky.
I have always had a fascination with ancient cultures and I love the way the author breaks down the technical components of the skeletal examinations to make the processes easily understood. Not only does this tell us more about the lives of the people themselves, but it gives the reader an insight into just how much work goes into these discoveries.
Ultimately a well thought out and engaging novel that I devoured in two days (despite what my goodreads start date says). I really do enjoy this series and can't wait for Alexandrian Athenaeum - the third book in the series!
I found myself easily transported back to the Mayan civilisation with the tales of Lady Six Sky. I also liked how the author was able to juxtapose some of the issues that Elizabeth was facing in modern life with those of Lady Six Sky.
I have always had a fascination with ancient cultures and I love the way the author breaks down the technical components of the skeletal examinations to make the processes easily understood. Not only does this tell us more about the lives of the people themselves, but it gives the reader an insight into just how much work goes into these discoveries.
Ultimately a well thought out and engaging novel that I devoured in two days (despite what my goodreads start date says). I really do enjoy this series and can't wait for Alexandrian Athenaeum - the third book in the series!
November 29, 2016
I was never one for history at school, but LJM Owen has managed to draw me in again to a world of ancient cultures, really old mysteries and a fascinating look at Mayan history, especially the women. I won't give anything away, but wow, I really wasn't aware of just how much our idea of beauty has changed over the Millenia. Also, who knew Canberra had so many interesting paces to visit? A nice, easy read, that reminds me of "Bones", but with more imagination. I cannot wait for next year when number three is released. It's refreshing to have such a strong female lead in a series.
November 12, 2016
The thing I love about this series is that you can truly feel how passionate the author is about them. It shines through the writing. The historian, the archaeologist, the feminist, the book lover and the crazy cat lady all shine through in equal measure to create a book full of personality.
February 15, 2017
Fantastic! Riveting! Emotional in a good way. I never wanted to finish and wanted to know how it ended, and was utterly disappointed when I had to put it down as there was no more to read. I can not wait for the next installment of Dr Elizabeth Pimms. :)
March 18, 2017
An absolute page-turner! I loved it! Can't wait for the next one!
November 16, 2016
‘The Intermillenial Sleuth rides again!’
Dr Elizabeth Pimms has been eagerly looking forward to her boyfriend Luke returning from his archaeological dig in Mexico. But perhaps the first clue that things might not be going as she’d expected is when Luke wants to meet up at the skeletal-analysis laboratory in Canberra. Elizabeth is excited when Luke tells her about the remains he has brought from a dig on Flores Island in Guatemala, from the bottom of a sacrificial cenote. There’s a mystery here for Elizabeth to explore: what is the story behind these tiny skeletons, and how might they relate to an ancient Mayan queen? But wait, Elizabeth thought Luke was in Mexico not Guatemala. This is the first of a couple of secrets Luke tells Elizabeth, which leave her reeling.
And while Elizabeth is coming to terms with Luke’s news, a hostile colleague is asking questions about Elizabeth’s family history. Add some challenging family issues in Canberra, and Elizabeth has a lot on her plate. Can she deal with all of the personal issues in front of her as well as undertake the analysis of the bones Luke has brought back?
‘Hovering on the edge of a new investigation felt invigorating.’
The novel moves between Elizabeth in present-day Canberra and the world of Lady Six Sky, Princess of Mutul (starting in April 675 CE). We learn more about Mayan culture while Elizabeth tries to make sense of the bones Luke has brought back. Elizabeth is working to a deadline, and others seem to be doing their best to prevent her from succeeding. Elizabeth’s reputation is at stake, and when her little brother Matty becomes seriously ill, it’s hard to see how she can succeed.
I enjoyed this novel, with a three small reservations. I thought at one stage Elizabeth was incredibly naïve to trust someone who had a proven track record of deception, but it does add to the sense of drama. My other reservations would introduce spoilers, and I’m not going to do that. Each reader will have their own reaction to these aspects of the story. This is the second of Ms Owen’s Dr Pimms series, and while it can be read as a standalone novel, I recommend reading them in order. The development of Elizabeth as a character with her rich and involved backstory involves its own set of mysteries in the present. I confess that it’s the ancient mysteries that drew me into these cozy mysteries, but I’m becoming increasingly intrigued by Elizabeth and her family.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries with well-developed, strong female characters, I recommend Dr Pimms to you. And if you like reading about ancient civilizations while solving mysteries, then I think you’ll enjoy this series. Ms Owen has seven more novels planned in this series, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Echo Publishing for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Dr Elizabeth Pimms has been eagerly looking forward to her boyfriend Luke returning from his archaeological dig in Mexico. But perhaps the first clue that things might not be going as she’d expected is when Luke wants to meet up at the skeletal-analysis laboratory in Canberra. Elizabeth is excited when Luke tells her about the remains he has brought from a dig on Flores Island in Guatemala, from the bottom of a sacrificial cenote. There’s a mystery here for Elizabeth to explore: what is the story behind these tiny skeletons, and how might they relate to an ancient Mayan queen? But wait, Elizabeth thought Luke was in Mexico not Guatemala. This is the first of a couple of secrets Luke tells Elizabeth, which leave her reeling.
And while Elizabeth is coming to terms with Luke’s news, a hostile colleague is asking questions about Elizabeth’s family history. Add some challenging family issues in Canberra, and Elizabeth has a lot on her plate. Can she deal with all of the personal issues in front of her as well as undertake the analysis of the bones Luke has brought back?
‘Hovering on the edge of a new investigation felt invigorating.’
The novel moves between Elizabeth in present-day Canberra and the world of Lady Six Sky, Princess of Mutul (starting in April 675 CE). We learn more about Mayan culture while Elizabeth tries to make sense of the bones Luke has brought back. Elizabeth is working to a deadline, and others seem to be doing their best to prevent her from succeeding. Elizabeth’s reputation is at stake, and when her little brother Matty becomes seriously ill, it’s hard to see how she can succeed.
I enjoyed this novel, with a three small reservations. I thought at one stage Elizabeth was incredibly naïve to trust someone who had a proven track record of deception, but it does add to the sense of drama. My other reservations would introduce spoilers, and I’m not going to do that. Each reader will have their own reaction to these aspects of the story. This is the second of Ms Owen’s Dr Pimms series, and while it can be read as a standalone novel, I recommend reading them in order. The development of Elizabeth as a character with her rich and involved backstory involves its own set of mysteries in the present. I confess that it’s the ancient mysteries that drew me into these cozy mysteries, but I’m becoming increasingly intrigued by Elizabeth and her family.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries with well-developed, strong female characters, I recommend Dr Pimms to you. And if you like reading about ancient civilizations while solving mysteries, then I think you’ll enjoy this series. Ms Owen has seven more novels planned in this series, and I’m eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Echo Publishing for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
November 27, 2016
I thought L.J.M. Owen's first book - Olmec Obituary was good. Mayan Mendacity was even better. I felt like I could picture the characters in my head, could imagine what they looked like and when they celebrated Christmas Day, I felt like I was there, enjoying the day with them. I think were I to meet Dr Elizabeth Pimms, we would get on quite well. I especially liked the handful of references to things that happened in Olmec Obituary that had consequences in this book, like her winning the award. If you like Bones, if you like Ancient Civilisations, if in fact you like history, grab this book and read it. You will not be disappointed.
March 27, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, even more than the first one, in fact after reading this second book in the series I went back and read the first book again and it made more sense. I don't want to give away any spoilers but I have an idea of who the mystery person is at the end of this book and I want the next book to come out so I can see if I am correct.
March 23, 2017
Find my review here
December 11, 2016
I read the Olmec Obituary and the Mayan Mendacity back to back and I really think that enhanced my enjoyment of the Mayan Mendacity. The second book starts exactly where the first book left off, so if you think there are a few threads not resolved in the first, then these will be tidied up by the end of this book but on saying that, this book can certainly be read as a stand alone.
In this book Elizabeth is given the opportunity to work on some bones from Nojpeten, the very last Mayan City. But someone is sabotaging her work by moving the bones around and things in her personal life aren't going smoothly.
Once again there are a few chapters that give us an insight to the people she is investigating which I found fascinating. Elizabeth seems to be growing and more confident in herself and I'm glad we still have interaction with Henry and Alice. I don't read many cozy type mysteries but I certainly see myself looking forward to the next instalment with a nice cup of tea.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy to read and review.
In this book Elizabeth is given the opportunity to work on some bones from Nojpeten, the very last Mayan City. But someone is sabotaging her work by moving the bones around and things in her personal life aren't going smoothly.
Once again there are a few chapters that give us an insight to the people she is investigating which I found fascinating. Elizabeth seems to be growing and more confident in herself and I'm glad we still have interaction with Henry and Alice. I don't read many cozy type mysteries but I certainly see myself looking forward to the next instalment with a nice cup of tea.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy to read and review.
February 13, 2017
I had not read the first book but this did not matter. I found this story interesting enough to read through the night. I would recommend this book for readers who like a bit of adventure, mystery in a light entertaining way. It also is steeped in history of the Mayan culture.
February 18, 2017
I read this book over two days, unusual for me. I really enjoyed the research from the present, with the tensions of betrayal and the story from the past, which also contained betrayal. I really really enjoyed the book.
December 8, 2016
4 Stars
This is a much better book than the first in this series. While still acting impetuous and a little immature, at least Elizabeth was somewhat better.
Hearing that her boyfriend Luke is finally coming home, she arranges to meet him. He drops a bombshell instead of greeting her in the manner she had hoped.
She does get the opportunity to examine some bones from a Mayan dig. It is a huge find, however, and due to some unforeseen circumstances, her examination of the bones is delayed. Not the least is that Mai, who also works at the library, claims to be her sister.
Moving steadily along, we come to the satisfying conclusion. This is a nice little cozy mystery. Good for reading on a rainy afternoon, curled up in your favorite chair, cat and hot beverage by your side.
I want to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Publishing Australia/Echo Publishing for extending the offer to read this book.
This is a much better book than the first in this series. While still acting impetuous and a little immature, at least Elizabeth was somewhat better.
Hearing that her boyfriend Luke is finally coming home, she arranges to meet him. He drops a bombshell instead of greeting her in the manner she had hoped.
She does get the opportunity to examine some bones from a Mayan dig. It is a huge find, however, and due to some unforeseen circumstances, her examination of the bones is delayed. Not the least is that Mai, who also works at the library, claims to be her sister.
Moving steadily along, we come to the satisfying conclusion. This is a nice little cozy mystery. Good for reading on a rainy afternoon, curled up in your favorite chair, cat and hot beverage by your side.
I want to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Publishing Australia/Echo Publishing for extending the offer to read this book.
April 17, 2017
I read this book over the weekend then went back and reread book one in the series and I am now following this series avidly. There were mysteries that began in book one that I did not recognize until I read book two and then I saw what I missed in book one. I am posting the same review for both books although I did think book two went faster than book one.
Without spoilers, there are mysteries started in book one that seem frustrating because they are not explained by the end of the first book but then they become clear in book two and I suspect it will be like this through the series as more books come out. So far my favorite aspects of these books are the family and the cats all though I also like the ancient mysteries and seeing how Elizabeth works out what happened with the clues left in the historical record.
One of my friends says she is #teamsam but I think I am #teammatty. He is such a cutie.
Without spoilers, there are mysteries started in book one that seem frustrating because they are not explained by the end of the first book but then they become clear in book two and I suspect it will be like this through the series as more books come out. So far my favorite aspects of these books are the family and the cats all though I also like the ancient mysteries and seeing how Elizabeth works out what happened with the clues left in the historical record.
One of my friends says she is #teamsam but I think I am #teammatty. He is such a cutie.
November 1, 2016
Disclaimer: I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Fortuitous. That is what I call my stumbling on this excellent little book. I was searching through Netgalley, hoping to find a book that I could use on my Fall Bookish Bingo. The description looked promising. Could I use it for the “suspense” square?
This book turned out even better than expected! It’s not simply a suspense novel, it is a love letter to ancient civilizations and archaeology. Dr. Elizabeth Pimms is a wonderful character. Young and brilliant, but also a little naive, she is also incredibly loyal and kind hearted. She’s someone I’d love to make friends with.She is driven to excellence in her work, and truly loves archaeology and making sense of the artifacts that she is presented with.
I also loved the fact that so many cultures are represented in this book. Dr. Pimms herself is Welsh, Chinese, French and Australian (I think). It makes for wonderful interactions with different members of her loving family, and some really delectable descriptions of family meal times. Ancient Mayan culture is also prominent, and those were some of my favorite parts of the book. As Dr. Pimms is working at deciphering the remains uncovered in Guatemala, we get glimpses of the Mayan culture and the sudden rise of a Mayan princess. It is a brutal society, but utterly fascinating.
The author of this book is herself an archeologist and the book is full of details about the processes involved in examining the results of a dig. If you like scholarly details, and a glimpse into that life you will really enjoy this book. The only thing I’m sorry about is that I didn’t realize this was the second book in the series, and I haven’t read the first yet! Well, I’ll fix that in short order. I fully recommend this series.
Bonus link: The author’s website has excellent information about the books, as well as about herself. It’s a good read.
Song for this book: Suo Gan – Kings College, Cambridge
Fortuitous. That is what I call my stumbling on this excellent little book. I was searching through Netgalley, hoping to find a book that I could use on my Fall Bookish Bingo. The description looked promising. Could I use it for the “suspense” square?
This book turned out even better than expected! It’s not simply a suspense novel, it is a love letter to ancient civilizations and archaeology. Dr. Elizabeth Pimms is a wonderful character. Young and brilliant, but also a little naive, she is also incredibly loyal and kind hearted. She’s someone I’d love to make friends with.She is driven to excellence in her work, and truly loves archaeology and making sense of the artifacts that she is presented with.
I also loved the fact that so many cultures are represented in this book. Dr. Pimms herself is Welsh, Chinese, French and Australian (I think). It makes for wonderful interactions with different members of her loving family, and some really delectable descriptions of family meal times. Ancient Mayan culture is also prominent, and those were some of my favorite parts of the book. As Dr. Pimms is working at deciphering the remains uncovered in Guatemala, we get glimpses of the Mayan culture and the sudden rise of a Mayan princess. It is a brutal society, but utterly fascinating.
The author of this book is herself an archeologist and the book is full of details about the processes involved in examining the results of a dig. If you like scholarly details, and a glimpse into that life you will really enjoy this book. The only thing I’m sorry about is that I didn’t realize this was the second book in the series, and I haven’t read the first yet! Well, I’ll fix that in short order. I fully recommend this series.
Bonus link: The author’s website has excellent information about the books, as well as about herself. It’s a good read.
Song for this book: Suo Gan – Kings College, Cambridge
October 10, 2016
I love reading about different cultures, the older the better. So of course I had to pick up a book dealing with it fictionally. I liked this, the second installment of this series better than the first.
Elizabeth is still sort of insufferable and the number of different dishes her family goes through is still ridiculous, but I was completely enamored of Lady Six Sky. The back story of the remains was pretty ingenious in my opinion, however the reason this book only gets a 3 is because the story was more centralized around Elizabeth and her myriad of problems. True, she’s a lot nicer to Alice in this book because they are now friends and she has this chemistry thing going on with Henry (poor Nathan!) but none of this added to the whole mystery.
Too much drama, too much cultural mish mash and too much Elizabeth imo.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Elizabeth is still sort of insufferable and the number of different dishes her family goes through is still ridiculous, but I was completely enamored of Lady Six Sky. The back story of the remains was pretty ingenious in my opinion, however the reason this book only gets a 3 is because the story was more centralized around Elizabeth and her myriad of problems. True, she’s a lot nicer to Alice in this book because they are now friends and she has this chemistry thing going on with Henry (poor Nathan!) but none of this added to the whole mystery.
Too much drama, too much cultural mish mash and too much Elizabeth imo.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 9, 2016
Archaeology - good. Food - good. Cats - good. Great characters, lots of misunderstandings and difficulty solving the mysteries. I didn't guess the endings which makes it great for me. Now I've finished both Book 1 and 2 as my Easter reads Elizabeth Pimms is a character I will follow to the end!
August 15, 2017
Loved it. After finishing the first in the series I ran out and got the second and devoured it. Very enjoyable, educating and entertaining. Can't wait for the third.
July 28, 2017
Set in Canberra, and in the Mayan empire in what is now Guatemala, Mayan Mendacity is the second in L.J.M. Owen’s Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth series. It is a challenge setting up the next book in a series and Owen has done so with finesse. The narration is light, buoyant, playful at times, yet ever observant, the result, a most satisfying read.
The main plot is driven by protagonist Dr Elizabeth Pimm’s new volunteer project, given her by the exacting Dr Marsh. She must assess an archeological find, the remains of a cesnote in Guatemala, meeting a series of crushing deadlines. Elizabeth’s pursuit of answers to the mysteries of the find is continuously thwarted as a number of complications beset her. Obstacles and challenges come from all directions, enough to make the weak among us buckle, but not Dr Pimms.
Owen has created a convincingly flawed and utterly lovable protagonist. She’s determined, dedicated, thorough and loyal. She sallies forth with gung ho exuberance, never down for long, no matter what befalls her. Elizabeth’s attitude is probably best summed up when she confronts another disaster and asks herself, ‘What fresh new hell was this?’
Dr Pimms is supported by a cast of characters, all rounded out and believable. The reader is introduced to each in turn as the story unfolds and a secondary plot emerges, one that is deeply personal. Indeed, it is Dr Pimms’ own history that thwarts her investigation, yet ultimately leads her to mature and open her heart.
The story is thoroughly researched; the author clearly knows her themes and her setting. Technical details are provided in an engaging, easy to follow manner. This is especially evident when Owen opens a window on the fascinating world of the Mayan empire, making use of a parallel narrative to take the reader back to the time of Dr Pimms’ find.
Elizabeth’s phrenic library is an interesting addition to the narrative, a fascinating invention, one that creates a curious occult dimension to Owen’s series. This phrenic library is a personal and mundane version of the Akashic records, a metaphysical compendium of all that has ever occurred in human history, stored on the inner planes, according to Theosophical belief. As a device, Elizabeth’s inner library works well, granting her plausible, if esoteric, access to knowledge she would otherwise be hard pressed to gain.
In all, I found Mayan Mendacity difficult to put down. Owen has provided her readers with an entertaining story that also informs, without allowing exposition to put a brake on the narrative. Pulling off a story laden with this much technical detail and maintaining a fast pace is quite a feat. (with thanks from Sisters in Crime for my review copy)
The main plot is driven by protagonist Dr Elizabeth Pimm’s new volunteer project, given her by the exacting Dr Marsh. She must assess an archeological find, the remains of a cesnote in Guatemala, meeting a series of crushing deadlines. Elizabeth’s pursuit of answers to the mysteries of the find is continuously thwarted as a number of complications beset her. Obstacles and challenges come from all directions, enough to make the weak among us buckle, but not Dr Pimms.
Owen has created a convincingly flawed and utterly lovable protagonist. She’s determined, dedicated, thorough and loyal. She sallies forth with gung ho exuberance, never down for long, no matter what befalls her. Elizabeth’s attitude is probably best summed up when she confronts another disaster and asks herself, ‘What fresh new hell was this?’
Dr Pimms is supported by a cast of characters, all rounded out and believable. The reader is introduced to each in turn as the story unfolds and a secondary plot emerges, one that is deeply personal. Indeed, it is Dr Pimms’ own history that thwarts her investigation, yet ultimately leads her to mature and open her heart.
The story is thoroughly researched; the author clearly knows her themes and her setting. Technical details are provided in an engaging, easy to follow manner. This is especially evident when Owen opens a window on the fascinating world of the Mayan empire, making use of a parallel narrative to take the reader back to the time of Dr Pimms’ find.
Elizabeth’s phrenic library is an interesting addition to the narrative, a fascinating invention, one that creates a curious occult dimension to Owen’s series. This phrenic library is a personal and mundane version of the Akashic records, a metaphysical compendium of all that has ever occurred in human history, stored on the inner planes, according to Theosophical belief. As a device, Elizabeth’s inner library works well, granting her plausible, if esoteric, access to knowledge she would otherwise be hard pressed to gain.
In all, I found Mayan Mendacity difficult to put down. Owen has provided her readers with an entertaining story that also informs, without allowing exposition to put a brake on the narrative. Pulling off a story laden with this much technical detail and maintaining a fast pace is quite a feat. (with thanks from Sisters in Crime for my review copy)
February 25, 2019
An archaeologist/librarian lands a rare task - to document/report on some unearthed Mayan remains found in a cenote located on an inland islet in Guatemala. The bones tell a story of hardship and torture.
I was a little disappointed that the chapters set in Mayan times were so few and provided only a snippet of insight into that era. I wanted more of this.
The main story of the protagonist being targeted by unreasonable people was interesting especially the genealogy aspect however the story alone wasn’t really enough to carry the full story.
I would not recommend this to people interested in Mayan history but I would recommend this to people who want an easy read with a basic but dramatic story about everyday life.
I was a little disappointed that the chapters set in Mayan times were so few and provided only a snippet of insight into that era. I wanted more of this.
The main story of the protagonist being targeted by unreasonable people was interesting especially the genealogy aspect however the story alone wasn’t really enough to carry the full story.
I would not recommend this to people interested in Mayan history but I would recommend this to people who want an easy read with a basic but dramatic story about everyday life.
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