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The Buck Baxter Mysteries #2
Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas
Hard-boiled 1920s private detective Buck Baxter has a new romance to kindle with playboy Holden Hart while at the same time trying to solve a new murder mystery at a seemingly cursed theater on Broadville. But if he doesn't solve this case in time, Buck and Holden might be taking their final bows.
Something sinister is occurring at the Maharaja Majestic Theatre on Broadville Boulevard. The domineering actress, Dominique Darlington, has vanished without a trace, the opening night of the theatre’s new production of The Snake Charmer’s Slave is now in jeopardy, and six suspects are about to have the pleasure of meeting Buck Baxter, Private Detective, as he investigates whether there’s a killer on the loose… or a phantom at the opera?
Could it be the handsome leading man, Errol Hemingway, who’s responsible for the disappearance of his leading lady… or perhaps it’s that sweet, doe-eyed understudy Olivia Overton? Is it the theatre owner himself, the tall and mysterious Raja Khan who has committed the crime… or the show’s investor, the autocratic aristocrat Serafina Somerset? Or is it possible that the meek and mild stage manager Stanley Small, or the flamboyant and frustrated director Barnabas Blake, is guilty?
And what of Buck’s romance with playboy millionaire Holden Hart? Will Buck get a backstage pass to access all areas of his one true love… or will this be the final curtain for Buck and Holden?
Follow the clues, and you might just solve… the mystery of the disappearing divas!
Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas is the second adventure in the Buck Baxter Mysteries. It is a campy, noir, 28k-word detective mystery featuring a tough and troubled leading man, a heartthrob love interest with secrets of his own and a hilarious cast of supporting characters. Enter a world of prohibition, gangsters, speakeasies, jazz clubs, star-crossed romance, brooding heroes and a mystery with a twist.
Something sinister is occurring at the Maharaja Majestic Theatre on Broadville Boulevard. The domineering actress, Dominique Darlington, has vanished without a trace, the opening night of the theatre’s new production of The Snake Charmer’s Slave is now in jeopardy, and six suspects are about to have the pleasure of meeting Buck Baxter, Private Detective, as he investigates whether there’s a killer on the loose… or a phantom at the opera?
Could it be the handsome leading man, Errol Hemingway, who’s responsible for the disappearance of his leading lady… or perhaps it’s that sweet, doe-eyed understudy Olivia Overton? Is it the theatre owner himself, the tall and mysterious Raja Khan who has committed the crime… or the show’s investor, the autocratic aristocrat Serafina Somerset? Or is it possible that the meek and mild stage manager Stanley Small, or the flamboyant and frustrated director Barnabas Blake, is guilty?
And what of Buck’s romance with playboy millionaire Holden Hart? Will Buck get a backstage pass to access all areas of his one true love… or will this be the final curtain for Buck and Holden?
Follow the clues, and you might just solve… the mystery of the disappearing divas!
Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas is the second adventure in the Buck Baxter Mysteries. It is a campy, noir, 28k-word detective mystery featuring a tough and troubled leading man, a heartthrob love interest with secrets of his own and a hilarious cast of supporting characters. Enter a world of prohibition, gangsters, speakeasies, jazz clubs, star-crossed romance, brooding heroes and a mystery with a twist.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2015
12 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Geoffrey Knight
75 books350 followersGeoffrey Knight is the author of more than 30 gay fiction novels, novellas and short stories, ranging in genre from gay adventure, gay romance, gay suspense and gay comedies.
The heroes of Geoffrey's books love to spend their time jumping off the page, seeking lost treasures, unraveling mysteries or falling in love.
Geoffrey is the recipient of two Rainbow Awards including Best Mystery Winner and Best Overall Gay Fiction Runner-up. His work has been featured in several anthologies including Best Gay Erotica 2013, and he appeared as Guest of Honor at the inaugural Rainbow Con in Florida, 2014.
Geoffrey has worked in advertising, politics, journalism and event management, but nothing is as fun as telling stories. He lives with his partner, their young daughter and their small furry family in a rambling old house in North Queensland, Australia, where the paint is fraying and life is good.
You can find everything you need to know about Geoffrey and his books at— https://linktr.ee/authorgeoffreyknight
The heroes of Geoffrey's books love to spend their time jumping off the page, seeking lost treasures, unraveling mysteries or falling in love.
Geoffrey is the recipient of two Rainbow Awards including Best Mystery Winner and Best Overall Gay Fiction Runner-up. His work has been featured in several anthologies including Best Gay Erotica 2013, and he appeared as Guest of Honor at the inaugural Rainbow Con in Florida, 2014.
Geoffrey has worked in advertising, politics, journalism and event management, but nothing is as fun as telling stories. He lives with his partner, their young daughter and their small furry family in a rambling old house in North Queensland, Australia, where the paint is fraying and life is good.
You can find everything you need to know about Geoffrey and his books at— https://linktr.ee/authorgeoffreyknight
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 12, 2016
BR with Jennifer and Mishy
Another hilarious installment in this series about pot-smoking, gin-swilling gumshoe, Buck Baxter and his diminutive sidekick, Stella. I laughed my ass off. These books don't take themselves seriously at all, they're just witty, bawdy fun.
Another hilarious installment in this series about pot-smoking, gin-swilling gumshoe, Buck Baxter and his diminutive sidekick, Stella. I laughed my ass off. These books don't take themselves seriously at all, they're just witty, bawdy fun.
November 8, 2015
4.5 Stars on Prism Book Alliance®
Play Bill
Cast of Characters – in relative order of appearance or mention:
Stanley Small
Stella Starling (Asst to Buck)
Dominique Darlington
Barnabas Blake
Maharaja Majestic (Theater)
Holden “Harry” Heart (Buck’s Harry)
Buck Baxter
I smiled, pulled my suspenders out in a gesture of self-assurance and let them snap back against my chest. Unfortunately, it gave my ass a start and a fart escaped me.
That, ladies ‘n gents, is our man Buck, and what you’re in for when you read this second installment in this series. What’s not to love, I ask thee? He had me chuckling from his first scene. Or rather, Knight’s writing by way of the first person voice of PI Baxter had me chuckling from scene one, and many times after.
Gumshoe! The single word earned this story a spot on my faves list. Gumshoe FTW! Yes, sometimes it can be that simple, that easy, that fantastic.
One of the best things about this story is the expanded role of Stella Starling. She. Is. Fab. Loud, humorous, intelligent, wonderfully direct, and unafraid. She’s wrapped in little package that packs the best of loyal and guffaw-inducing punches. It feels like Knight was chomping at the bit to let her loose on all of us. The energy rises anytime she’s involved in the scene.
One of my favorite lines of hers, to Buck:
”Ahh, build a bridge and get over it, toots.”
I love you, Stella!
This is a highly and easily entertaining mix of mystery, haunted theater (orrrrrr… is it? Dun dun dunnnnn!), the funnies, and well-crafted characters, fully realized while simultaneously allowing me to feel that there is so much more to come. Granted, the mystery itself is part run of the mill, part clever, part backdrop for the characters, but it fits the tone and time period.
The relationship between Harry and Buck is… well, it’s complicated, for a lot of reasons. They’re now having to navigate this life together (orrrr… are they? Dun dun dunnnnnn!) after surviving the challenges of book one Buck Baxter, Love Detective.
You wouldn’t necessarily have to read book one before diving into this, but you would miss some of the reasons behind the tension and difficulties Buck and Harry are working through.
Lest you think this gem is without passion, pain, and heart…
It was cold but I didn’t give a damn because as I raised my collar and headed into the downpour, I knew nobody could see my tears.
Yeah. Exactly. I’d want to know why Buck was saying that and feeling that way, too. I’d need to find out.
Gutted. So good.
With excellent pacing, punchy dialogue and snappy prose, emotional signposts that kept me reaching for more, and characters I’d gleefully spend time with on any day and twice on Wednesdays (yeah, you read that right), this story gets two thumbs up with a twist and some sparkle. Smoothly written with a brash bit of modernity surrounded by that which is early 20th century cool, along with realistic personal struggles and gorgeously adult cussing, I kinda sorta no doubt about it couldn’t get enough.
Next up: Buck Baxter and the Magician’s Maze. I’ll be there!
PS: Now that I’ve read this, the title gave me yet another extended chuckle, one of many. :D
Play Bill
Cast of Characters – in relative order of appearance or mention:
Stanley Small
Stella Starling (Asst to Buck)
Dominique Darlington
Barnabas Blake
Maharaja Majestic (Theater)
Holden “Harry” Heart (Buck’s Harry)
Buck Baxter
I smiled, pulled my suspenders out in a gesture of self-assurance and let them snap back against my chest. Unfortunately, it gave my ass a start and a fart escaped me.
That, ladies ‘n gents, is our man Buck, and what you’re in for when you read this second installment in this series. What’s not to love, I ask thee? He had me chuckling from his first scene. Or rather, Knight’s writing by way of the first person voice of PI Baxter had me chuckling from scene one, and many times after.
Gumshoe! The single word earned this story a spot on my faves list. Gumshoe FTW! Yes, sometimes it can be that simple, that easy, that fantastic.
One of the best things about this story is the expanded role of Stella Starling. She. Is. Fab. Loud, humorous, intelligent, wonderfully direct, and unafraid. She’s wrapped in little package that packs the best of loyal and guffaw-inducing punches. It feels like Knight was chomping at the bit to let her loose on all of us. The energy rises anytime she’s involved in the scene.
One of my favorite lines of hers, to Buck:
”Ahh, build a bridge and get over it, toots.”
I love you, Stella!
This is a highly and easily entertaining mix of mystery, haunted theater (orrrrrr… is it? Dun dun dunnnnn!), the funnies, and well-crafted characters, fully realized while simultaneously allowing me to feel that there is so much more to come. Granted, the mystery itself is part run of the mill, part clever, part backdrop for the characters, but it fits the tone and time period.
The relationship between Harry and Buck is… well, it’s complicated, for a lot of reasons. They’re now having to navigate this life together (orrrr… are they? Dun dun dunnnnnn!) after surviving the challenges of book one Buck Baxter, Love Detective.
You wouldn’t necessarily have to read book one before diving into this, but you would miss some of the reasons behind the tension and difficulties Buck and Harry are working through.
Lest you think this gem is without passion, pain, and heart…
It was cold but I didn’t give a damn because as I raised my collar and headed into the downpour, I knew nobody could see my tears.
Yeah. Exactly. I’d want to know why Buck was saying that and feeling that way, too. I’d need to find out.
Gutted. So good.
With excellent pacing, punchy dialogue and snappy prose, emotional signposts that kept me reaching for more, and characters I’d gleefully spend time with on any day and twice on Wednesdays (yeah, you read that right), this story gets two thumbs up with a twist and some sparkle. Smoothly written with a brash bit of modernity surrounded by that which is early 20th century cool, along with realistic personal struggles and gorgeously adult cussing, I kinda sorta no doubt about it couldn’t get enough.
Next up: Buck Baxter and the Magician’s Maze. I’ll be there!
PS: Now that I’ve read this, the title gave me yet another extended chuckle, one of many. :D
maybe
March 4, 2019Freebie at the zon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Buck-Baxter-...
August 9, 2015
Buddy Read with Nick and Mish, kind of...
That is entertainment folks, just entertainment. Full review to come!
That is entertainment folks, just entertainment. Full review to come!
June 12, 2016
4 stars
Lots more silly fun with the very endearing Buck and friends. When is book #3 being released??
Lots more silly fun with the very endearing Buck and friends. When is book #3 being released??
November 8, 2025
Buck Baxter se encuentra con un nuevo caso, la desaparición de una de las actrices de la opera que se va a presentar en la ciudad. Pero también esta comenzando un nuevo capítulo en su vida, ahora con Stella como su "ayudante", y con Harry como su "amante", la vida de Buck es muy diferente. Pero esos cambios serán para mejor? Será suficiente para mantenerlo en el trabajo? Harry de verdad querrá estar a su lado?
Esta serie de libros es corta pero entretenida. Me encanta la sencillez de Buck y las locuras de Stella, me molesta la frialdad de Harry y las gemelas, pero se que poco a poco van a ir mejorando en la trama. En cuanto al misterio, fue entretenido, sin muchas pistas (ya que la mayoría de la historia se centra en la relación Harry-Buck), fue bastante complicado hacerme una imagen clara del crimen y sus sospechosos.
En fin, quiero saber que va a pasar ahora con Buck y Harry, y el reciente descubrimiento del padre del primero, y el secreto de familia que guarda el segundo.
Esta serie de libros es corta pero entretenida. Me encanta la sencillez de Buck y las locuras de Stella, me molesta la frialdad de Harry y las gemelas, pero se que poco a poco van a ir mejorando en la trama. En cuanto al misterio, fue entretenido, sin muchas pistas (ya que la mayoría de la historia se centra en la relación Harry-Buck), fue bastante complicado hacerme una imagen clara del crimen y sus sospechosos.
En fin, quiero saber que va a pasar ahora con Buck y Harry, y el reciente descubrimiento del padre del primero, y el secreto de familia que guarda el segundo.
August 24, 2019
Maybe it’s me, but I didn’t see any of the promise I saw in book one. This was superficial on both the mystery & romance fronts. It spends more time on wisecracks than real character development. But even with some good one-liners I found Stella as annoying as she is amusing. This can’t seem to decide if it wants to be a parody playing for laughs or a genuine detective yarn. I was also bothered by some editing issues and possible anachronisms.
June 7, 2016
I enjoyed Stella in Buck Baxter, Love Detective in her smaller part. Her step up to Buck's assistant was overkill and hurt the story in my opinion. I liked the ongoing romance between Harry and Buck. While entertaining, I did not feel that the secondary characters were very well developed. The surprise ending was really a shocker for both me and our favorite detective.
March 9, 2019
Cute, funny, silly, and not as good as the first book.
July 12, 2020
Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas
Geoffrey Knight
Published by the author, 2017
Four stars
The second of this series set in the fictional (but very New Yorkish) Wilde City in the 1920s manages to maintain the lively, camp-noir mode of the first book, while expanding the storyline and adding some background complications. The most important of these is Buck’s boyfriend Harry and his difficult relationship with his adopted parents, which in turn leads to strife in their relationship.
There is a delightful sense of diversity in these books, which is of course entirely out of sync with the “real” world of the American roaring twenties where segregation by class and race and sexuality was the norm (even if plenty of people crossed the lines). Buck has a new assistant, Stella Starling, a little person we met in the first book, who has a big mouth and is also a highly successful, um, lady of the evening.
With the first book as his sort-of origin story, Buck continues his pursuit of justice when a wealthy Mughal entrepreneur seeks out his help to solve the mysterious disappearance of an opera star a scant week before her opening night at his palatial theater. As was true of the first book, the actual detective story is really just the structure around which all of the interesting details of Buck’s life are anchored. Buck is not a spiritual guy, but he is kinda existentialist, and seeks inner peace and truth through smoking weed (did they call it pot in the twenties?) and getting naked with a blind Chinese matriarch on her floating riverside opium den.
Like I said, not really very like the actual 1920s in New York (at least the one we all were told about).
I was intrigued, and a little disappointed that, in this book, Buck seemed to be a bit more of a jerk than I remembered, especially when dealing with his boyfriend, Harry, scion of a powerful old-money family. Then again, Harry is far less charming in this book than before, and therein lies the strife that fuels the questions that are not quite answered. I do need to like the main characters in the books I read…and it was a bit of a struggle this time around. Being a good-looking smart-aleck isn’t really enough for me. I need a good guy, even if he’s rough around the edges. Maybe Harry needs to top for once. That might smooth out those rough edges.
There is no cliffhanger here, but of course an unexpected reveal at the end is the hook for book three—which, alas, is NOT READY YET. Get with it, Mr. Knight. We’re waiting.
Geoffrey Knight
Published by the author, 2017
Four stars
The second of this series set in the fictional (but very New Yorkish) Wilde City in the 1920s manages to maintain the lively, camp-noir mode of the first book, while expanding the storyline and adding some background complications. The most important of these is Buck’s boyfriend Harry and his difficult relationship with his adopted parents, which in turn leads to strife in their relationship.
There is a delightful sense of diversity in these books, which is of course entirely out of sync with the “real” world of the American roaring twenties where segregation by class and race and sexuality was the norm (even if plenty of people crossed the lines). Buck has a new assistant, Stella Starling, a little person we met in the first book, who has a big mouth and is also a highly successful, um, lady of the evening.
With the first book as his sort-of origin story, Buck continues his pursuit of justice when a wealthy Mughal entrepreneur seeks out his help to solve the mysterious disappearance of an opera star a scant week before her opening night at his palatial theater. As was true of the first book, the actual detective story is really just the structure around which all of the interesting details of Buck’s life are anchored. Buck is not a spiritual guy, but he is kinda existentialist, and seeks inner peace and truth through smoking weed (did they call it pot in the twenties?) and getting naked with a blind Chinese matriarch on her floating riverside opium den.
Like I said, not really very like the actual 1920s in New York (at least the one we all were told about).
I was intrigued, and a little disappointed that, in this book, Buck seemed to be a bit more of a jerk than I remembered, especially when dealing with his boyfriend, Harry, scion of a powerful old-money family. Then again, Harry is far less charming in this book than before, and therein lies the strife that fuels the questions that are not quite answered. I do need to like the main characters in the books I read…and it was a bit of a struggle this time around. Being a good-looking smart-aleck isn’t really enough for me. I need a good guy, even if he’s rough around the edges. Maybe Harry needs to top for once. That might smooth out those rough edges.
There is no cliffhanger here, but of course an unexpected reveal at the end is the hook for book three—which, alas, is NOT READY YET. Get with it, Mr. Knight. We’re waiting.
June 10, 2015
Picture this…
High above Wilde City, Howard Hart flies one of his airships through the bright, morning sky. Only to find his son, heir to the Hart fortune, butt ass naked on his balcony with his lover, Buck Baxter Private Investigator extraordinaire, just as naked. Holding his spent lover in his arms. The tension is palpable. As if Buck needed another headache today. First he’s very rudely woke by his assistant Stella who can best be described as a foul mouthed dame that likes to “borrow” her bosses pipe and smoke all his pot! Then there is the new case at the theater where the leading lady disappeared into a puff of fog and black feathers. Yes, I said feathers.
From the start, something is amiss, but Buck has a hard timing putting his finger on the miss since he’s having to play good cop to Stella’s slightly hysterical bad cop. The theater seems to be alive with malcontent and mysteries. The playbill for the show is a substitute suspect list as Buck and Stella try to navigate their way through costumes, cranky actors, a pretentious backer and a very cranky snake. It doesn’t help that Buck’s focus is divided between the case and his now uncertain relationship with Harry.
This was just a fast, fun read. I love this 1920’s era world Knight has created as the backdrop, with these theatrical characters that breathe life into the story. I think Stella is my favorite, I just love the way she talks, like a twenties harlot. I picture a young Mae West while I’m reading her and I can just see her at the juke joint with her feather boa, glittery flapper dress, that long cigarette holder, or in Stella’s case, Buck’s pipe! I picture her wearing a way too long string of fake pearls that she could wrap around someone’s neck and choke the living shit out of them if they pissed her off.
Then there is the dual mystery of the story that kept it a little intense for the reader. There were little clues dropped throughout the dialogue if you were paying attention while reading, that made the suspects identity clearly obvious, but I didn’t realize that until the identity was revealed. That was very enjoyable. Then there is the strain on the relationship between Buck and Harry unfolding in the background. The story flowed well and steady from start to nearly the finish, with a big finale that literally had me sitting up straight, freaking out just a little bit.
All’s well that ends well, that’s all I’m going to say. If you are a fan of slapstick mystery, Columba, the roaring twenties… grab yourself a copy of this little ditty, I think you’ll approve. I caution that you read the first book if you haven’t yet, otherwise you won’t understand or appreciate some important events and characters within this story.
Grab your pipes, pour yourself a glass of gin and sit back and enjoy Buck’s current comical caper, as he tries to solve the mystery of the Disappearing Divas! And try hard not to get caught with his pants down by his boyfriends dad again either.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
High above Wilde City, Howard Hart flies one of his airships through the bright, morning sky. Only to find his son, heir to the Hart fortune, butt ass naked on his balcony with his lover, Buck Baxter Private Investigator extraordinaire, just as naked. Holding his spent lover in his arms. The tension is palpable. As if Buck needed another headache today. First he’s very rudely woke by his assistant Stella who can best be described as a foul mouthed dame that likes to “borrow” her bosses pipe and smoke all his pot! Then there is the new case at the theater where the leading lady disappeared into a puff of fog and black feathers. Yes, I said feathers.
From the start, something is amiss, but Buck has a hard timing putting his finger on the miss since he’s having to play good cop to Stella’s slightly hysterical bad cop. The theater seems to be alive with malcontent and mysteries. The playbill for the show is a substitute suspect list as Buck and Stella try to navigate their way through costumes, cranky actors, a pretentious backer and a very cranky snake. It doesn’t help that Buck’s focus is divided between the case and his now uncertain relationship with Harry.
This was just a fast, fun read. I love this 1920’s era world Knight has created as the backdrop, with these theatrical characters that breathe life into the story. I think Stella is my favorite, I just love the way she talks, like a twenties harlot. I picture a young Mae West while I’m reading her and I can just see her at the juke joint with her feather boa, glittery flapper dress, that long cigarette holder, or in Stella’s case, Buck’s pipe! I picture her wearing a way too long string of fake pearls that she could wrap around someone’s neck and choke the living shit out of them if they pissed her off.
Then there is the dual mystery of the story that kept it a little intense for the reader. There were little clues dropped throughout the dialogue if you were paying attention while reading, that made the suspects identity clearly obvious, but I didn’t realize that until the identity was revealed. That was very enjoyable. Then there is the strain on the relationship between Buck and Harry unfolding in the background. The story flowed well and steady from start to nearly the finish, with a big finale that literally had me sitting up straight, freaking out just a little bit.
All’s well that ends well, that’s all I’m going to say. If you are a fan of slapstick mystery, Columba, the roaring twenties… grab yourself a copy of this little ditty, I think you’ll approve. I caution that you read the first book if you haven’t yet, otherwise you won’t understand or appreciate some important events and characters within this story.
Grab your pipes, pour yourself a glass of gin and sit back and enjoy Buck’s current comical caper, as he tries to solve the mystery of the Disappearing Divas! And try hard not to get caught with his pants down by his boyfriends dad again either.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
August 2, 2015
Review also posted on http://www.wodfreview.com
I was so excited to read this! I loved book one in the series and was waiting patiently for more. Like Buck Baxter, Love Detective the Disappearing Divas takes place in the 1920’s which is perfect for me being a self-professed historical nut. I’m also a lover of Gumshoe detective series whether in books or film and TV. There is just something campy and fun about them and Book 2 of this series was chockfull of campy and fun with a bit of spice for the loving couple and of course a mystery that needs solving.
There were more than a few times that I chuckled or outright laughed. From Harry and Buck getting caught by Harry’s father bare ass naked doing the nasty on the balcony of Harry’s penthouse to Buck’s incredibly hilarious and snarky assistant Stella. Boy do I love her, that women has no filter and she talks non-stop. Sometimes I couldn’t believe the things that came out of that mouth of hers. I love Stella’s feistiness and for someone who stands a mire 3 feet tall the visual is hilarious. Beware of Stella she’ll steal your heart.
Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas is a great little story. The writing style, the pacing, the mystery, all the wonderful characters and Buck and Harry’s growing love affair all make for very enjoyable read. It’s a quick easy fun afternoon read and I can’t wait for the next installment.
July 16, 2015
As I said with book 1, it was a good read and I enjoyed his little person side-kick Stella who took no shit from anyone, including Buck. Harry annoyed me with his need to keep his father happy at Buck's expense, but there is something bigger going on there that I will be patient for further books.
March 13, 2016
** 4.5 Stars **
A great mix of humor, drama and suspense.
Can't wait for the next installment : Buck Baxter and the Magician’s Maze!
September 15, 2018
Another brilliant written mystery book for the series. This had me glued from start to finish with Buck and his wonderful assistant, Stella solving another case. Oh good ol Stella she's a laugh for her little pint sized frame *shush but don't tell her she'd clobber me..lol Oh if the author calls himself a hack in this book he can just keep'n coming cause I'm addicted to Buck and his friends. Buck and Holden aka Harry have their rough patch that they work though. Oh God the ending of this is one of dramatics as the Id of the killer is known, I had a hunch it was.. not telling :P. I'm coming to know the author's writings for this series, why cause yah the end just blew me away just like the first book.. cant wait to read the 3rd next book.
March 2, 2025
1920s PI Buck Baxter and his foul-mouthed sidekick Stella Darling tackle a case where the leading lady in a musical theatre production is kidnapped. Buck and Stella don’t exactly warm to the cast, all of whom seem to have motives, and when further things go wrong for the production, Buck and Stella are also caught in the firing line. Meanwhile, Buck and his beau, the playboy Holden Hart, continue to break up and get back together—can Holden stand up to his father for Buck’s sake?
This was a classic theatre murder-mystery where the eccentric, extroverted cast are all suspects. I enjoyed Buck and Stella’s no-nonsense handling of the flamboyant cast although some of the jibes and jokes traded step on a few politically correct toes. There’s an over-the-top zaniness to these stories with every clichéd peril and stereotype being trotted out for laughs and gasps—it’s light entertainment and I found it amusing. 🎧 I like Art Brown’s audio narrations and I enjoyed this one!
This was a classic theatre murder-mystery where the eccentric, extroverted cast are all suspects. I enjoyed Buck and Stella’s no-nonsense handling of the flamboyant cast although some of the jibes and jokes traded step on a few politically correct toes. There’s an over-the-top zaniness to these stories with every clichéd peril and stereotype being trotted out for laughs and gasps—it’s light entertainment and I found it amusing. 🎧 I like Art Brown’s audio narrations and I enjoyed this one!
January 19, 2020
This time Buck and Stella are on the case to solve a kidnapping at at an opera theatre. In the meantime, Harry wants to keep Buck from his family, but not out of shame about their relationship.
When the first singer is found dead, another is killed, on opening night it all comes clear who the killer is and why.
To me, this doesn’t really make sense, but it’s an interesting mystery. Things are clarified for Buck about what Harry’s trying to do, and it’s not about them, but about the future of Harry’s father’s business. The end is a shocking revelation, hope there’s more to come.
KU
When the first singer is found dead, another is killed, on opening night it all comes clear who the killer is and why.
To me, this doesn’t really make sense, but it’s an interesting mystery. Things are clarified for Buck about what Harry’s trying to do, and it’s not about them, but about the future of Harry’s father’s business. The end is a shocking revelation, hope there’s more to come.
KU
September 1, 2018
Great book...
In book two of the Buck Baxter Mysteries Series, Buck Baxter is back with another mystery to solve and now tge added drama of love and relationship with Harry, AKA Holden Hart.
The mystery of who did it and what's Holden hiding was intriguing and entertaining... again, we have humour and some hot sexy times in this quick read by Geoffrey Knight. Definitely recommend this book.
In book two of the Buck Baxter Mysteries Series, Buck Baxter is back with another mystery to solve and now tge added drama of love and relationship with Harry, AKA Holden Hart.
The mystery of who did it and what's Holden hiding was intriguing and entertaining... again, we have humour and some hot sexy times in this quick read by Geoffrey Knight. Definitely recommend this book.
April 21, 2019
The mystery just wasn't developed enough -- I read this yesterday and I've already forgotten whodunnit.
And for such short books, Harry and Buck are having difficulties already in the second one? Sad.
And for such short books, Harry and Buck are having difficulties already in the second one? Sad.
November 22, 2017
A entertaining book with mystery, humor and romance.
November 23, 2017
Stella stole this show. She was hilarious! Things were looking pretty bleak at the end and Stella showed up and saved the day.
May 12, 2019
So this was interesting, although I couldn't remember what had happened in the previous story. There's not much romance but it's sort so...
March 23, 2020
Excellent mystery!
I really enjoyed this 2nd book a lot. Great mystery and some great tense moments to keep you on the edge. Oh! And a bit of a surprise ending.
I really enjoyed this 2nd book a lot. Great mystery and some great tense moments to keep you on the edge. Oh! And a bit of a surprise ending.
July 1, 2024
Romance was disappointing.
July 12, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
I remember liking the first one but not really loving it. After reading this installment I have to say that if book 3 was available to me I’d read it right away. Book 1 seemed to set up the story, this one exposes some intriguing layers to Buck Baxter and the world he’s living in. The romance between Harry and Buck is in trouble because of Harry’s dad. Parts of Buck’s life he never really cared to know about have become entwined. He’s struggling with being in love with a guy who for some reason is suddenly pushing him away. So many more interesting plot points in this one which makes me happy.
Buck is still a detective who needs to work, so when his extremely mouthy and former prostitute assistant knocks on his door at an ungodly hour to tell him about a new job, he really can’t say no. An actress who has the lead role in a local theater production has gone missing. The owners want to keep this out of the press as much as possible so they hire Buck to solve the mystery before opening night.
This book was pretty damn funny. The characters are fun with some bordering on outrageous but that just makes for a fun read if you ask me. It’s not too much. Just enough to set the tone and liven up the story. The assistant Candy kills me. She’s totally obnoxious but hilarious. I really didn’t know who the baddie was throughout the story. There were so many plausible possibilities presented I was wondering until the end. Harry kind of pissed me off in this one. Poor Buck is totally in love with him but Harry doesn’t seem to be as willing to jump all in. I’m sure the reasoning will be further explored in future books because the one reason he gave just intrigued me more. I want answers damn it! It can’t just be about money and social standing. Harry doesn’t seem that shallow. The vague blind pot dealing future reading woman is back and she’s as confusing as ever. I kept trying to decipher her prophecy but couldn’t come up with much. I’ll have to go back after the next book and reread it to see how it fits.
Basically this one was a much meatier read IMO. There’s another mystery to solve, a continuing but troubled love story and plenty of humor. But there’s also more to the characters stories than I originally thought. Something shady is going down in Wilde City and Buck and Harry are right in the middle of it. I’m looking forward to reading about how they work it out. Hopefully together.
I remember liking the first one but not really loving it. After reading this installment I have to say that if book 3 was available to me I’d read it right away. Book 1 seemed to set up the story, this one exposes some intriguing layers to Buck Baxter and the world he’s living in. The romance between Harry and Buck is in trouble because of Harry’s dad. Parts of Buck’s life he never really cared to know about have become entwined. He’s struggling with being in love with a guy who for some reason is suddenly pushing him away. So many more interesting plot points in this one which makes me happy.
Buck is still a detective who needs to work, so when his extremely mouthy and former prostitute assistant knocks on his door at an ungodly hour to tell him about a new job, he really can’t say no. An actress who has the lead role in a local theater production has gone missing. The owners want to keep this out of the press as much as possible so they hire Buck to solve the mystery before opening night.
This book was pretty damn funny. The characters are fun with some bordering on outrageous but that just makes for a fun read if you ask me. It’s not too much. Just enough to set the tone and liven up the story. The assistant Candy kills me. She’s totally obnoxious but hilarious. I really didn’t know who the baddie was throughout the story. There were so many plausible possibilities presented I was wondering until the end. Harry kind of pissed me off in this one. Poor Buck is totally in love with him but Harry doesn’t seem to be as willing to jump all in. I’m sure the reasoning will be further explored in future books because the one reason he gave just intrigued me more. I want answers damn it! It can’t just be about money and social standing. Harry doesn’t seem that shallow. The vague blind pot dealing future reading woman is back and she’s as confusing as ever. I kept trying to decipher her prophecy but couldn’t come up with much. I’ll have to go back after the next book and reread it to see how it fits.
Basically this one was a much meatier read IMO. There’s another mystery to solve, a continuing but troubled love story and plenty of humor. But there’s also more to the characters stories than I originally thought. Something shady is going down in Wilde City and Buck and Harry are right in the middle of it. I’m looking forward to reading about how they work it out. Hopefully together.
August 20, 2016
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I love reading books in a series especially ones that features the same characters as the other books. It gives the reader a chance to experience the growth the character goes through, their journeys. You can come to feel a part of the world the author creates. I expected to feel that way to a small degree with Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas. It is an even shorter story than book one, but the way I felt at the end of the book exceeded my expectations. Now I only wish book three was out and ready for me to read
Buck Baxter seems to be overloaded with problems in this book. Professionally he takes on a missing persons case that leads to murder. He has hired on Stella Starling a little person and prostitute who’s personality is larger than life. Her bold speaking and loud voice seem to be turning the case into a circus, though. On top of that, there are more suspects than he can shake a stick at. I found myself unable to be sure who the culprit was. The mystery was intriguing though, and once the killer was revealed, I found the reasons for the murder were much different than what I thought they would have been. I liked that even though I had some suspicions, I was still able to be surprised.
Personally, Buck is having love problems. Holden Hart, also known as Harry, is a wealthy nightclub owner who came to Wilde City expressly for Buck Baxter. At the end of book one it seemed like they might just be a love match. In the harsh light of another day, Buck finds himself being pushed away by Harry, kept secret, and warned not to ask questions. I could definitely empathize with Buck’s anger and hurt because I loved reading about Harry and Buck together.
I really like the narrative the story has. As if Buck is talking to the reader in an aside at times. It made me feel like I was a part of the story. A witness to the events. Even though the story is set in the 1920’s there is a futuristic feeling as well. The mystery and romance in the story had me captivated. As with book one, the end of this story brought some big surprises and I am almost desperate for a book three. I definitely recommend this book and the series.
9.5/10 Pots of Gold (95% Recommended) – Compares to 4.75/5 Stars
I love reading books in a series especially ones that features the same characters as the other books. It gives the reader a chance to experience the growth the character goes through, their journeys. You can come to feel a part of the world the author creates. I expected to feel that way to a small degree with Buck Baxter and the Disappearing Divas. It is an even shorter story than book one, but the way I felt at the end of the book exceeded my expectations. Now I only wish book three was out and ready for me to read
Buck Baxter seems to be overloaded with problems in this book. Professionally he takes on a missing persons case that leads to murder. He has hired on Stella Starling a little person and prostitute who’s personality is larger than life. Her bold speaking and loud voice seem to be turning the case into a circus, though. On top of that, there are more suspects than he can shake a stick at. I found myself unable to be sure who the culprit was. The mystery was intriguing though, and once the killer was revealed, I found the reasons for the murder were much different than what I thought they would have been. I liked that even though I had some suspicions, I was still able to be surprised.
Personally, Buck is having love problems. Holden Hart, also known as Harry, is a wealthy nightclub owner who came to Wilde City expressly for Buck Baxter. At the end of book one it seemed like they might just be a love match. In the harsh light of another day, Buck finds himself being pushed away by Harry, kept secret, and warned not to ask questions. I could definitely empathize with Buck’s anger and hurt because I loved reading about Harry and Buck together.
I really like the narrative the story has. As if Buck is talking to the reader in an aside at times. It made me feel like I was a part of the story. A witness to the events. Even though the story is set in the 1920’s there is a futuristic feeling as well. The mystery and romance in the story had me captivated. As with book one, the end of this story brought some big surprises and I am almost desperate for a book three. I definitely recommend this book and the series.
9.5/10 Pots of Gold (95% Recommended) – Compares to 4.75/5 Stars
June 20, 2015
Sam Spade meets Phantom of the Opera in Sin City. How about that for a combination? Add to that the GLBT aspects of the story and well, the recipe makes for a slightly different reading experience.
This story takes place in an imaginary Wilde City and features the intrepid Private Detective, Buck Baxter, during an era reminiscent of the roaring twenties. Think prohibition, gin joints, and opium dens. Wilde City is much as the name implies. Wild!
Buck Baxter? He is a most interesting character. One of those anti-hero type heroes. I am not sure whether to like him or not. He is a bit of a slob who pretty much lives in his office, not because he is that ambitious or busy, but because he doesn’t want to pay rent on an apartment – mostly because he can’t afford it. He has some interesting habits – like gin and pot – surpassed only by his even more “interesting,” if dubious, friends(?). But, he has a soft heart under all that hard core that can be broken.
Then there is his “assistant,” Stella. Three feet tall with a mouth a sailor would blush at. How she became his assistant is another story – Buck Baxter, Love Detective in fact. Yes, I really think you need to read that first. That is where most of the character and world building happened. Although this is a new mystery to solve, you will want to read the first book to know who is who in the zoo.
I was pleasantly surprised at the roller-coaster of emotions I experience as I read this. This is obviously a spoof, but I still experienced the highs of happiness and the lows of despair, with some side trips to eye-rolling humor and spine-tingling suspense. Not bad for a short little tongue-in-cheek mystery story.
This author can be hit or miss for me. This series is a hit. I look forward to another Buck Baxter mystery in the future.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story takes place in an imaginary Wilde City and features the intrepid Private Detective, Buck Baxter, during an era reminiscent of the roaring twenties. Think prohibition, gin joints, and opium dens. Wilde City is much as the name implies. Wild!
Buck Baxter? He is a most interesting character. One of those anti-hero type heroes. I am not sure whether to like him or not. He is a bit of a slob who pretty much lives in his office, not because he is that ambitious or busy, but because he doesn’t want to pay rent on an apartment – mostly because he can’t afford it. He has some interesting habits – like gin and pot – surpassed only by his even more “interesting,” if dubious, friends(?). But, he has a soft heart under all that hard core that can be broken.
Then there is his “assistant,” Stella. Three feet tall with a mouth a sailor would blush at. How she became his assistant is another story – Buck Baxter, Love Detective in fact. Yes, I really think you need to read that first. That is where most of the character and world building happened. Although this is a new mystery to solve, you will want to read the first book to know who is who in the zoo.
I was pleasantly surprised at the roller-coaster of emotions I experience as I read this. This is obviously a spoof, but I still experienced the highs of happiness and the lows of despair, with some side trips to eye-rolling humor and spine-tingling suspense. Not bad for a short little tongue-in-cheek mystery story.
This author can be hit or miss for me. This series is a hit. I look forward to another Buck Baxter mystery in the future.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2015
Rating 4.5
The show must go on, but in the last days before The Snake Charmer’s Slave play is due to open, the odds seems to be working against it.
Buck Baxter & The Disappearing Divas is the sequel to Buck Baxter, Love Detective. The fascinating plot exhibits the murder and mayhem in the works at the Maharaja Majestic Theater and Buck, along with his mouthy assistant Stella, has been hired to solve the case. Naturally everyone connected with the theater is a suspect. However, Buck discovers a few revelations during his investigation. For instance, the theater is a deathtrap for the unwary. Some of the financial supporters are known to have illegal activities but are too powerful to ever bring to justice. Buck also questions the owner’s tea imports from India after a deadly theater mishap.
The characters are witty, as well as being entertaining. Buck is struggling with new feelings of love for Harry plus finding a murderer. Harry is struggling with hiding the fact he is gay from his wealthy father, while attempting to convince Buck the love is reciprocated. The actors display an over the top persona as if they are always on stage to be worshipped by adoring fans.
Geoffrey Knight has created a captivatingly enjoyable saga. I was mainly impressed by the unexpected shock aspect constructed into the otherwise traditional mystery theme.
The show must go on, but in the last days before The Snake Charmer’s Slave play is due to open, the odds seems to be working against it.
Buck Baxter & The Disappearing Divas is the sequel to Buck Baxter, Love Detective. The fascinating plot exhibits the murder and mayhem in the works at the Maharaja Majestic Theater and Buck, along with his mouthy assistant Stella, has been hired to solve the case. Naturally everyone connected with the theater is a suspect. However, Buck discovers a few revelations during his investigation. For instance, the theater is a deathtrap for the unwary. Some of the financial supporters are known to have illegal activities but are too powerful to ever bring to justice. Buck also questions the owner’s tea imports from India after a deadly theater mishap.
The characters are witty, as well as being entertaining. Buck is struggling with new feelings of love for Harry plus finding a murderer. Harry is struggling with hiding the fact he is gay from his wealthy father, while attempting to convince Buck the love is reciprocated. The actors display an over the top persona as if they are always on stage to be worshipped by adoring fans.
Geoffrey Knight has created a captivatingly enjoyable saga. I was mainly impressed by the unexpected shock aspect constructed into the otherwise traditional mystery theme.
June 16, 2015
Brilliant very funny.
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