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Santa Fe Revival Mystery #2
A Moment in Crime
Fans of Rhys Bowen will be abuzz over Amanda Allen’s second installment in her bold Santa Fe Revival mysteries.
The on-set murder of a famous Jazz Age film director unearths a hornet’s nest of passion, duplicity, naked ambition, and bitter revenge.
The golden age of cinema is dawning, and Santa Fe is in the grip of movie fever when director Luther Bishop arrives for the filming of his new cowboy flick. Maddie Vaughn-Alwin’s cousin Gwen Astor is in town with a bit part in the movie—but Gwen finds herself caught in a whirlwind of mischief before shooting even begins. But the plot only thickens when the detestable director is found hanging in his office.
When it comes to light that Gwen was having a torrid affair with Luther, she gets pegged as the prime suspect, much to Maddie’s dismay. But Maddie, quick on her feet with ever the keen eye knows that Luther had his fair share of enemies, and there’s no shortage of contenders. Luther’s widowed wife Bridget finally assumes her late husband’s most-coveted director’s chair, head of wardrobe Lorelei Fontaine is bitterly denied a role by Luther she was once promised, and original leading man Harry Kelly was summarily fired by Luther just upon arriving at Santa Fe.
Desperate to prove Gwen’s innocence, Maddie begins an investigation, but every clue reveals another motive—and could point to another murder—in A Moment in Crime, the second engaging whodunit in Amanda Allen’s enchanting Santa Fe Revival mysteries.
The on-set murder of a famous Jazz Age film director unearths a hornet’s nest of passion, duplicity, naked ambition, and bitter revenge.
The golden age of cinema is dawning, and Santa Fe is in the grip of movie fever when director Luther Bishop arrives for the filming of his new cowboy flick. Maddie Vaughn-Alwin’s cousin Gwen Astor is in town with a bit part in the movie—but Gwen finds herself caught in a whirlwind of mischief before shooting even begins. But the plot only thickens when the detestable director is found hanging in his office.
When it comes to light that Gwen was having a torrid affair with Luther, she gets pegged as the prime suspect, much to Maddie’s dismay. But Maddie, quick on her feet with ever the keen eye knows that Luther had his fair share of enemies, and there’s no shortage of contenders. Luther’s widowed wife Bridget finally assumes her late husband’s most-coveted director’s chair, head of wardrobe Lorelei Fontaine is bitterly denied a role by Luther she was once promised, and original leading man Harry Kelly was summarily fired by Luther just upon arriving at Santa Fe.
Desperate to prove Gwen’s innocence, Maddie begins an investigation, but every clue reveals another motive—and could point to another murder—in A Moment in Crime, the second engaging whodunit in Amanda Allen’s enchanting Santa Fe Revival mysteries.
279 pages, Hardcover
Published December 11, 2018
25 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 8, 2018
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
I enjoyed this delightful cozy mystery set in Santa Fe in the age of the silent movie, early 20th century.
Maddie and Gwen are cousins growing up in New York's high society. But instead of becoming Ladies Who Lunch, they choose a different life for themselves. Traveling West, Maddie settles in Santa Fe to make a living as a painter, while Gwen moves on to Hollywood.
Santa Fe is a lively artisan community, with wonderful adobe houses, Portugese tiles and Navajo rugs.
Its desert and blue skies make a great setting for a movie. Years later this is where the cousins meet again, when Gwen stars in a western.
All is well until a dead body is discovered.
I found the process of solving the mystery quite dragging and once it becomes clear what happened the story just fizzles out.
Even so, A Moment In Crime is a pleasantly paced entertaining read with well written bold characters set in an inspiring environment.
I enjoyed this delightful cozy mystery set in Santa Fe in the age of the silent movie, early 20th century.
Maddie and Gwen are cousins growing up in New York's high society. But instead of becoming Ladies Who Lunch, they choose a different life for themselves. Traveling West, Maddie settles in Santa Fe to make a living as a painter, while Gwen moves on to Hollywood.
Santa Fe is a lively artisan community, with wonderful adobe houses, Portugese tiles and Navajo rugs.
Its desert and blue skies make a great setting for a movie. Years later this is where the cousins meet again, when Gwen stars in a western.
All is well until a dead body is discovered.
I found the process of solving the mystery quite dragging and once it becomes clear what happened the story just fizzles out.
Even so, A Moment In Crime is a pleasantly paced entertaining read with well written bold characters set in an inspiring environment.
July 7, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for sending me the advanced digital copy of A Moment in Crime by Amanda Allen. The book offers a delightful mix of western, wonderful characters, most of whom you would like to at least meet if not befriend, and a neat murder mystery to complete the package.
The beauty of Santa Fe is drawn here with enough description to call to mind the gorgeous vastness of the western United States, without being so belabored as to feel like a travelog. It’s just enough to remind anyone who has lived or visited the area of the beauty they experienced and to provide enough intrigue for anyone who hasn’t to want to spend some time there. The period nature of the book, taking place around a silent film set in the small town of Santa Fe evokes just enough atmosphere to create the feel of having stepped back in time.
This was my first read in the Santa Fe Revival Mystery series, but hopefully not my last. Although it is part of a series, the book is a complete mystery in itself, and as such, can easily be read as a stand-alone. There are some recurring characters who are enticing, and who add enough charm to the story to make it even more interesting. The only drawback to the series is there are a few “spoilers” in this book that relate to the first book in the series. This might make reading out of order a bit frustrating to someone who wants to read mysteries with an opportunity to solve the puzzle along with the protagonist.
Clues are sprinkled throughout the book, along with red herrings, in such a way as to be present without being overly obvious. In addition, there are characters who are so warmly drawn the reader almost can’t help being drawn in and hoping they are neither victim nor perpetrator. As for the protagonist, she is a thoroughly modern woman who has a clear picture of what she wants and is taking steps to follow her dream regardless of family expectations and mores of the time.
The story takes place against the backdrop of a film shoot happening on location in New Mexico, but has more to do with the personalities of actors and other film professionals than the technical aspects of shooting. While most of the personalities ring true, there is a slight hiccup with the film’s female lead in that when we first encounter her she doesn’t appear very likeable. However, as the story unfolds she is much more sympathetic and likeable, but there is no explanation that would suggest a change of her heart. Rather it seemed as if the original concept for her was one of a more self-centered individual, and then she morphed into a more caring one. The transition was a bit abrupt, but she remained believable in the new persona.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good mystery wrapped up in the pages of a cozy book that has little violence and well drawn characters. These characters are written with distinctive voices enough so that it is easy to keep them firmly in mind as you progress through the story. As such, this book is equally suitable for someone who wants a vacation book where they can read straight through or a book they can pick up and put down as they progress through their other routines.
The beauty of Santa Fe is drawn here with enough description to call to mind the gorgeous vastness of the western United States, without being so belabored as to feel like a travelog. It’s just enough to remind anyone who has lived or visited the area of the beauty they experienced and to provide enough intrigue for anyone who hasn’t to want to spend some time there. The period nature of the book, taking place around a silent film set in the small town of Santa Fe evokes just enough atmosphere to create the feel of having stepped back in time.
This was my first read in the Santa Fe Revival Mystery series, but hopefully not my last. Although it is part of a series, the book is a complete mystery in itself, and as such, can easily be read as a stand-alone. There are some recurring characters who are enticing, and who add enough charm to the story to make it even more interesting. The only drawback to the series is there are a few “spoilers” in this book that relate to the first book in the series. This might make reading out of order a bit frustrating to someone who wants to read mysteries with an opportunity to solve the puzzle along with the protagonist.
Clues are sprinkled throughout the book, along with red herrings, in such a way as to be present without being overly obvious. In addition, there are characters who are so warmly drawn the reader almost can’t help being drawn in and hoping they are neither victim nor perpetrator. As for the protagonist, she is a thoroughly modern woman who has a clear picture of what she wants and is taking steps to follow her dream regardless of family expectations and mores of the time.
The story takes place against the backdrop of a film shoot happening on location in New Mexico, but has more to do with the personalities of actors and other film professionals than the technical aspects of shooting. While most of the personalities ring true, there is a slight hiccup with the film’s female lead in that when we first encounter her she doesn’t appear very likeable. However, as the story unfolds she is much more sympathetic and likeable, but there is no explanation that would suggest a change of her heart. Rather it seemed as if the original concept for her was one of a more self-centered individual, and then she morphed into a more caring one. The transition was a bit abrupt, but she remained believable in the new persona.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good mystery wrapped up in the pages of a cozy book that has little violence and well drawn characters. These characters are written with distinctive voices enough so that it is easy to keep them firmly in mind as you progress through the story. As such, this book is equally suitable for someone who wants a vacation book where they can read straight through or a book they can pick up and put down as they progress through their other routines.
January 7, 2019
A relaxing read. I’ve always enjoyed books by this author. I hope she writes more for this series and one day another book from her fabulous Elizabethan series (written under a different name)
February 11, 2019
This second entry in the author's Santa Fe Revival series is as easy and breezy as the first.
Artist Maddie Alwin, young widow from NYC's upper crust, has settled in well in her new home town of Santa Fe, NM. Her peace and quiet is interrupted by the arrival of her cousin Gwen (last seen heading for California). Seems Gwen is now a Hollywood starlet; she's in Santa Fe because the film she's working in is shooting on location (what a novel idea in the early 1920s). And she's got problems!
The author does a good job with the movie company--all the spats, jealousies, business problems, come bubbling to the surface. So much so that the director (who is neither nice nor competent) is found dead--a murder rather sloppily staged to look like suicide. The suspect list is a mile long and Gwen's name figures prominently. Maddie 'knows' that Gwen is innocent; but if not Gwen, then who? I was quite satisfied with the solution to the crime.
A nice way to pass a couple of hours; I look forward to the next. I always have liked Santa Fe.
Artist Maddie Alwin, young widow from NYC's upper crust, has settled in well in her new home town of Santa Fe, NM. Her peace and quiet is interrupted by the arrival of her cousin Gwen (last seen heading for California). Seems Gwen is now a Hollywood starlet; she's in Santa Fe because the film she's working in is shooting on location (what a novel idea in the early 1920s). And she's got problems!
The author does a good job with the movie company--all the spats, jealousies, business problems, come bubbling to the surface. So much so that the director (who is neither nice nor competent) is found dead--a murder rather sloppily staged to look like suicide. The suspect list is a mile long and Gwen's name figures prominently. Maddie 'knows' that Gwen is innocent; but if not Gwen, then who? I was quite satisfied with the solution to the crime.
A nice way to pass a couple of hours; I look forward to the next. I always have liked Santa Fe.
December 30, 2018
I love Santa Fe more than almost everywhere else in the world. I’ve been to many of the places in the book. And the author does an excellent job capturing the scenery, the feeling, the ambience. Reading these books, I can easily picture myself in the square facing the La Fonda, having one of their lethal margaritas (seriously. I got one, thought it was disappointingly tiny for $11, and Could. Not. find the door to the street.).
But these characters are almost criminally boring. For the second time in two books, Elizabeth and her drug problem have floated through, reminded Maddie of something she doesn’t share with the rest of us, then vanishes in a puff of narrative convenience.
*spoiler*
There’s another character in this book Maddie sees on a pretty frequent basis, thinks he reminds her of someone, and WE NEVER FIND OUT WHO HE IS. He apparently has no bearing on the story at all, but he keeps turning up.
There’s an entire subplot—I shouldn’t say entire, because it is in no way resolved—about a gossip columnist. She contributes nothing to the story except apparently to be one of several red herrings.
Like, I’ll probably read the next one, but it’s because I like the scenery.
But these characters are almost criminally boring. For the second time in two books, Elizabeth and her drug problem have floated through, reminded Maddie of something she doesn’t share with the rest of us, then vanishes in a puff of narrative convenience.
*spoiler*
There’s another character in this book Maddie sees on a pretty frequent basis, thinks he reminds her of someone, and WE NEVER FIND OUT WHO HE IS. He apparently has no bearing on the story at all, but he keeps turning up.
There’s an entire subplot—I shouldn’t say entire, because it is in no way resolved—about a gossip columnist. She contributes nothing to the story except apparently to be one of several red herrings.
Like, I’ll probably read the next one, but it’s because I like the scenery.
December 17, 2018
Historical mysteries are a favorite of mine and A Moment in Crime is a enjoyable addition to my reading list. Set in Santa Fe of the 1920's with its slow small town pace, it's the era of the silent films and all of the glamor that comes with it. Maddie and her cousin Gwen have chosen to leave the social life they grew up in - Maddie to become a painter and Gwen to become an actress. When a movie company arrives to film, Gwen is in the company. Gwen soon needs Maddie's help when the film's director is murdered and Gwen is prime suspect number one.
The mystery itself is a bit thin and the pace is slow to start but the characters are well drawn. It's the setting that kept me engaged along with the descriptions of the world of the silent movies. Maddie and Gwen are women who have decided to go their own way and, while investigating they do things that are not wise choices. When reading a historical mystery the reader has to adjust their mind set a bit. Put it altogether and it worked for me. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
My thanks to the publisher Crooked Lane and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
The mystery itself is a bit thin and the pace is slow to start but the characters are well drawn. It's the setting that kept me engaged along with the descriptions of the world of the silent movies. Maddie and Gwen are women who have decided to go their own way and, while investigating they do things that are not wise choices. When reading a historical mystery the reader has to adjust their mind set a bit. Put it altogether and it worked for me. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
My thanks to the publisher Crooked Lane and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2018
Santa Fe has become a place of respite and creativity for Maddie Vaughn-Alwin. Her art is flourishing and her love life definitely going well. A movie comes to town and suddenly the town has the cinema bug. Maddie cousin, Gwen Astor, is an aspiring actress, but real life and reel life don't always mix well. Maddie comes to the rescue to investigate when Gwen is arrested for killing the director.
This cozy has period details of Santa Fe and the early days of silent films wrapped up in an enjoyable mystery and charm. Recommended for both cozy and historical fiction lovers.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This cozy has period details of Santa Fe and the early days of silent films wrapped up in an enjoyable mystery and charm. Recommended for both cozy and historical fiction lovers.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2019
Not as good as the first one but still very good! I love the characters and the movie angle was interesting. The mystery started awfully late and there were few clues along the way, took some of the fun out of it.
July 11, 2018
I love Amanda Allen's choice to write about Santa Fe in the 1920's and she does a good job in evoking the beauty and almost magical appeal of the place. I also was attracted to the fact that her character was a painter and hoped the book would include a little more background on the artistic movement during the early 20th century in Santa Fe.
My disappointment in the book stemmed from my personal reading experience---I never accepted the behavior of the principal character, Madeline. The reader needs to believe that a wealthy, well-bred New York debutante (from the Astor family, no less) would insert herself in to a movie colony after a casual invitation, snoop in the Director's private office, pick up evidence from a crime scene (and withhold it) and later, tote a gun to confront the
evil-doers----well, I just couldn't go there.
I liked Madeline's spirit, but couldn't believe anything at all about her actions. I would readily return to Ms. Allen's series if she demanded a little less "suspension of disbelief" on the part of her readers.
NetGalley provided me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My disappointment in the book stemmed from my personal reading experience---I never accepted the behavior of the principal character, Madeline. The reader needs to believe that a wealthy, well-bred New York debutante (from the Astor family, no less) would insert herself in to a movie colony after a casual invitation, snoop in the Director's private office, pick up evidence from a crime scene (and withhold it) and later, tote a gun to confront the
evil-doers----well, I just couldn't go there.
I liked Madeline's spirit, but couldn't believe anything at all about her actions. I would readily return to Ms. Allen's series if she demanded a little less "suspension of disbelief" on the part of her readers.
NetGalley provided me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2018
A MOMENT IN CRIME picks up directly where SANTA FE MOURNING left off. Maddie Vaughn-Alwin is attending an art show when her cousin, Gwendolyn Astor, stumbles in and begs Maddie to help her get out of trouble. The last time Maddie saw her cousin was a few years earlier when they were traveling cross-country to California. Maddie never made it to their final destination. Instead, she stayed in Santa Fe and left Gwen to travel the rest of the way alone. In Los Angeles, Gwen set her sights on becoming an actress in the silent films during what is known as the golden age of cinema. Now, Gwen is in Santa Fe to act in a movie that is being filmed outside of town. And she needs Maddie’s help to deal with the overbearing, blackmailing director. When Luther Bishop is murdered on set, Gwen becomes the police’s number one suspect due to her torrid affair with the man. Maddie refuses to believe that her cousin is a murderer, so she delves deeper into the director’s life and learns that he had a long list of enemies that could have killed him. With a slew of suspects, Maddie must find the one who called the final cut on the director’s life.
While I love the setting and time period of the novel – Santa Fe, New Mexico, during the Roaring 20s – I’m not a huge fan of Maddie. She steals evidence from the crime scene, but never turns any of it over to the police. She also learns about various motives that different suspects had to kill the victim, but she doesn’t share this information with the police. Maddie is even threatened by the killer, but she doesn’t tell anyone about that either. It was also a little too unbelievable that Maddie just happened to be given a job as artistic director on set, and is then able to snoop around the set/crime scene at her leisure. Not only did Maddie conveniently get a job on set, she also got a job as wardrobe assistant for her housekeeper. The “best buddies” relationship between Maddie and her housekeeper just doesn’t work for me. Nor is it believable that all of these people are telling Maddie their deepest, darkest secrets. After discovering the identity of the killer, Maddie grabs her deceased husband’s service revolver and rushes off to confront the killer in a completely preposterous scene. I hate to deem Maddie as one of those TSTL (Too Stupid To Live) amateur sleuths – mainly because I think this series has a lot of promise – but most of her antics will make the readers either laugh, groan, or bash their heads into the wall in reaction. Also, the victim was thoroughly unlikable, and I found that I couldn’t bring myself to really care who the murderer was because that person essentially did the fictional world a favor by removing the victim from it. Overall, the premise of the novel was very interesting, and the various suspects and motives did keep me guessing at the killer’s identity.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
While I love the setting and time period of the novel – Santa Fe, New Mexico, during the Roaring 20s – I’m not a huge fan of Maddie. She steals evidence from the crime scene, but never turns any of it over to the police. She also learns about various motives that different suspects had to kill the victim, but she doesn’t share this information with the police. Maddie is even threatened by the killer, but she doesn’t tell anyone about that either. It was also a little too unbelievable that Maddie just happened to be given a job as artistic director on set, and is then able to snoop around the set/crime scene at her leisure. Not only did Maddie conveniently get a job on set, she also got a job as wardrobe assistant for her housekeeper. The “best buddies” relationship between Maddie and her housekeeper just doesn’t work for me. Nor is it believable that all of these people are telling Maddie their deepest, darkest secrets. After discovering the identity of the killer, Maddie grabs her deceased husband’s service revolver and rushes off to confront the killer in a completely preposterous scene. I hate to deem Maddie as one of those TSTL (Too Stupid To Live) amateur sleuths – mainly because I think this series has a lot of promise – but most of her antics will make the readers either laugh, groan, or bash their heads into the wall in reaction. Also, the victim was thoroughly unlikable, and I found that I couldn’t bring myself to really care who the murderer was because that person essentially did the fictional world a favor by removing the victim from it. Overall, the premise of the novel was very interesting, and the various suspects and motives did keep me guessing at the killer’s identity.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
February 17, 2019
The second entry in what will hopefully be a decent length series, and the first I've read. I felt only a little wrong-footed in that there were references to the murder from the first book but otherwise, it was easy to get involved in the story and connect the characters involved.
It's 1922 and artist Maddie Alwin has settled in Sante Fe, New Mexico, after the death of her husband in WWI. She has set up her own life: a home, a successful artistic career, a housekeeper and a new beau in the form of a handsome English doctor.
Maddie's cousin Gwen (they are both 'escapees' from NY society, being Astors), is in California following her dream of becoming an actress. One day, a movie crew arrives in town and begins to set up for filming. To her surprise, Gwen is amongst the arrivals, only she is in quite a state. It turns out that the director of the film, one Luther Bishop, is a both a fan of young ladies and a tyrant to work for, making him no friends amongst the crew. When Maddie finds his body in his office, an apparent suicide, no one is particularly upset to hear the news. However, it's not as cut and dried as it appears, and Maddie gets involved in the investigation of his murder.
The story moves along sedately, nothing particularly dramatic or overly exciting happens, but the story is good and the killer is quite well hidden so while I had a tiny suspicion, I didn't truly guess until Maddie had it figured out.
The single thing which took me wholly out of the story (1922) was the mention of the twins' first day of school, where they readied themselves for their new adventure. Their knapsacks were full of books. I was curious about this, so I looked it up: knapsacks/backpacks weren't invented until 1967. Their brother Eddie arrives home after work with one as well. So, sadly, I went straight from 1922 to 2012 and never really found my way back, despite some mentions of film reels, some 20s lingo and various other references. Anachronisms like this can really upset the whole feel of the book and that's unfortunately what happened to me with this.
Otherwise, I read through this quite quickly and enjoyed it. I'd definitely continue, as I liked the setting and the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
It's 1922 and artist Maddie Alwin has settled in Sante Fe, New Mexico, after the death of her husband in WWI. She has set up her own life: a home, a successful artistic career, a housekeeper and a new beau in the form of a handsome English doctor.
Maddie's cousin Gwen (they are both 'escapees' from NY society, being Astors), is in California following her dream of becoming an actress. One day, a movie crew arrives in town and begins to set up for filming. To her surprise, Gwen is amongst the arrivals, only she is in quite a state. It turns out that the director of the film, one Luther Bishop, is a both a fan of young ladies and a tyrant to work for, making him no friends amongst the crew. When Maddie finds his body in his office, an apparent suicide, no one is particularly upset to hear the news. However, it's not as cut and dried as it appears, and Maddie gets involved in the investigation of his murder.
The story moves along sedately, nothing particularly dramatic or overly exciting happens, but the story is good and the killer is quite well hidden so while I had a tiny suspicion, I didn't truly guess until Maddie had it figured out.
The single thing which took me wholly out of the story (1922) was the mention of the twins' first day of school, where they readied themselves for their new adventure. Their knapsacks were full of books. I was curious about this, so I looked it up: knapsacks/backpacks weren't invented until 1967. Their brother Eddie arrives home after work with one as well. So, sadly, I went straight from 1922 to 2012 and never really found my way back, despite some mentions of film reels, some 20s lingo and various other references. Anachronisms like this can really upset the whole feel of the book and that's unfortunately what happened to me with this.
Otherwise, I read through this quite quickly and enjoyed it. I'd definitely continue, as I liked the setting and the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
July 19, 2018
If you enjoy historical mysteries, you will delight in Amanda Allen’s second suspenseful Santa Fe Revival mystery - A Moment in Crime. The shifting hues of the desert provide a stunning backdrop for this jazz age tale of ambition, betrayal, blackmail and murder.
Maddie’s cousin, Gwen Astor, ran away to Hollywood to become an actress, while Maddie settled in Santa Fe to paint and recover from her husband’s loss. Gwen arrives suddenly, exhausted and in tears, after a failed love affair with Luther Bishop, Hollywood director and notorious womanizer. Luther Bishop is filming a western epic in Santa Fe. Conflicts between the director and his cast and crew make filming a nightmare. Accidents plague the set. Then Luther is found hanging in his office, and Gwen is amongst the suspects.
The jazz age is a fascinating time period, for its social change and its artistic innovation. Acting is one of the areas where women could have ambitions - but few amongst the many aspiring starlets were successful, and many suffered abuse. A Moment in Crime offers readers an intriguing view of the movie making process as well as an interesting mystery. I particularly enjoyed the unique setting and the rich local color.
A Moment in Crime is an excellent historical mystery, beautifully composed, and filled with unique characters. It is easy to care about the compassionate Maddie and her many friends. I look forward to reading more of Amanda Allen’s Santa Fe Revival mysteries.
5 / 5
I received a copy of A Moment in Crime from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
— Crittermom
January 15, 2019
I love the premise of the Santa Fe Revival Mysteries – a young war widow named Maddie leaves New York high society behind to become an artist in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Add the almost magical beauty of Santa Fe and the 1920’s backdrop, and author Amanda Allen has all the makings of a wonderful historical mystery series.
A MOMENT IN CRIME begins where SANTA FE MOURNING, the first book in the series, ends. When a film crew arrives in town, complete with Maddie’s actress cousin Gwen Astor, the town is abuzz with excitement. However, all that glitters is not gold when the film’s director Luther is found dead, and Gwen becomes the prime suspect. Confident that Gwen is innocent, Maddie faces a litany of suspects and motives, intent on clearing Gwen’s name.
I like Maddie. She is definitely a modern woman, independent and caring. She does do some dumb things, like stealing something from the crime scene and withholding information from the police, but overall, she is a smart amateur sleuth. Her love interest David is a wonderful character, a logical accompaniment to her impulsive artist’s nature. We learn more about David and the lingering effects of World War I. I had a difficult time finding anything redeeming about the victim Luther, but the other characters associated with the film deliver plenty of variety to keep the story interesting.
I savored every word of A MOMET IN CRIME and cannot wait to read Maddie’s next adventure. I hope there are many more books to come. Recommended to any historical mystery fan, especially readers fond of the 1920s.
I received an ARC of this title from the author/publisher and voluntarily shared my thought here.
A MOMENT IN CRIME begins where SANTA FE MOURNING, the first book in the series, ends. When a film crew arrives in town, complete with Maddie’s actress cousin Gwen Astor, the town is abuzz with excitement. However, all that glitters is not gold when the film’s director Luther is found dead, and Gwen becomes the prime suspect. Confident that Gwen is innocent, Maddie faces a litany of suspects and motives, intent on clearing Gwen’s name.
I like Maddie. She is definitely a modern woman, independent and caring. She does do some dumb things, like stealing something from the crime scene and withholding information from the police, but overall, she is a smart amateur sleuth. Her love interest David is a wonderful character, a logical accompaniment to her impulsive artist’s nature. We learn more about David and the lingering effects of World War I. I had a difficult time finding anything redeeming about the victim Luther, but the other characters associated with the film deliver plenty of variety to keep the story interesting.
I savored every word of A MOMET IN CRIME and cannot wait to read Maddie’s next adventure. I hope there are many more books to come. Recommended to any historical mystery fan, especially readers fond of the 1920s.
I received an ARC of this title from the author/publisher and voluntarily shared my thought here.
November 29, 2018
A Moment in Crime
A Santa Fe Revival Mystery
by Amanda Allen
Crooked Lane Books
Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 21 Dec 2018
I am reviewing a copy of A Moment in Crime through Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley:
The murder of a famous Jazz aged Film director unearths a hornets nest of passion, duplicity, and naked ambition, and bitter revenge.
The Golden age of cinema has begun. Santa Fe is in the grip of movie fever when Luther Bishop arrives for the filming of his new Cowboy Film. Maddie Vaughn-Alwin's cousin Gwen Astor is in town with a small part in the movie. Unfortunately Gwen finds herself caught in a whirlwind of Mischief before the filming even starts. The plot thickens when the director is found hanging in his office!
Soon it comes to light that Gwen was having an affair with Luther, leaving Gwen as the prime suspect in his murder much to Maddie's dismay . But Maddie knows that Gwen was not the only one who he had an affair with. He's made his fair share of enemies. Luther's widowed Wife Bridget finally takes her late husbands coveted directors chair meanwhile head of wardrobe Lorelei Fontaine is denied a role that Luther had promised her. Original leading man Harry Kelly was fired by Luther just as they arrived in Santa Fe.
Desperate to prove her cousin Gwen's innocence Maddie begins an investigation of her own but every clue reveals a new motive. Can Maddie prove her cousin's innocence.
I give A Moment in Crime five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
November 5, 2018
Maddie Vaughn-Alwin is settling into Santa Fe, pursuing her art, and adjusting to the loss of her husband in World War I. But then her cousin Gwen Astor arrives, having a bit part in a movie being shot in Santa Fe. Gwen is different than the girl who was Maddie's best friend when they were children. She's fragile and brittle and confesses that she had an affair with the director of the film who brutally dropped her when he thought she was pregnant. Maddie wonder why Gwen would be willing to still be in his movie.
Maddie also meets another old friend from New York City who is working as a writer for the film. He invites Maddie and her housekeeper to visit the set. Maddie is curious and her housekeeper is a fan of of all the movie star magazines. Maddie discovers that making a movie isn't really very glamorous as she quickly sees the tensions on the set. When the director is found dead - an apparent suicide, Maddie is suspicious. He didn't seem at all like the sort of person to take his own life. And no one on the film crew, including his wife, liked him.
When Gwen comes under suspicion, Maddie has to find out what really happened to save her cousin.
I loved the time period and the information about the early days of movie making. Maddie is an intriguing character who is overcoming her grief and building a new life that is just right for her.
Maddie also meets another old friend from New York City who is working as a writer for the film. He invites Maddie and her housekeeper to visit the set. Maddie is curious and her housekeeper is a fan of of all the movie star magazines. Maddie discovers that making a movie isn't really very glamorous as she quickly sees the tensions on the set. When the director is found dead - an apparent suicide, Maddie is suspicious. He didn't seem at all like the sort of person to take his own life. And no one on the film crew, including his wife, liked him.
When Gwen comes under suspicion, Maddie has to find out what really happened to save her cousin.
I loved the time period and the information about the early days of movie making. Maddie is an intriguing character who is overcoming her grief and building a new life that is just right for her.
December 5, 2018
Sleepy Santa Fe in 1922 is invaded by a movie crew wanting authenticity for their new cowboy film. Painter Maddie Vaughn-Alwin is caught up in the mystique of the glamor of the film culture. Her cousin, Gwen, arrives with the rest of the actors and tells Maddie that the despicable director has used her and tossed her away. Things go from bad to worse when Maddie finds the director of the film hanging in his office. It quickly looks like this was no suicide and there is a plethora of suspects, including Gwen. Maddie decides she must prove Gwen’s innocence, and the game is afoot.
This is the second book in Allen’s Santa Fe series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
The book is well written, the author uses her research to set the scene without trying to overwhelm the reader with her knowledge, and the characters, while not all charming, are all interesting. The most interesting among them is Maddie herself. The story moves along at a slow pace befitting the time frame and the location. Once the scene is set, it does pick up the pace, but remains dignified.
If you’re looking for a historical cozy, then this is the book for you. If this is the first book in this series you want to read, by the time you get to the end, you’ll want to find the first book.
This is the second book in Allen’s Santa Fe series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
The book is well written, the author uses her research to set the scene without trying to overwhelm the reader with her knowledge, and the characters, while not all charming, are all interesting. The most interesting among them is Maddie herself. The story moves along at a slow pace befitting the time frame and the location. Once the scene is set, it does pick up the pace, but remains dignified.
If you’re looking for a historical cozy, then this is the book for you. If this is the first book in this series you want to read, by the time you get to the end, you’ll want to find the first book.
January 29, 2025
Solid 3.5 start worth rounding up to 4.
This is my first novel by Amanda Allen and I enjoyed it much more than I expected - especially given the Goodreads rating (My personal ratings tend to be lower than the ratings I see on the site so...) but this was exactly what I needed right now: very cozy, very good writing for scene, place and time period (the early 1920s in Santa Fe, New Mexic0) and pretty decent editing. They mystery itself was alright but not riveting.
The story (and series) revolves around Maddie Alwin - a member of the wealthy Astor family - who has relocated from New York to Santa Fe after the death of her husband in the first world war. A burgeoning artist, she revels in the incredibly beauty of Santa Fe and the vibrant arts community. In this installment, her cousin Gwen (another Astor and acting hopeful) has come to town as part of a movie shoot filled with glamorous Hollywood types. It doesn't take long before a key (and very disliked) member of the movie's production team is found dead. Is it suicide or foul play? And what will Maddie do once her cousin has been charged with murder?
This is my first novel by Amanda Allen and I enjoyed it much more than I expected - especially given the Goodreads rating (My personal ratings tend to be lower than the ratings I see on the site so...) but this was exactly what I needed right now: very cozy, very good writing for scene, place and time period (the early 1920s in Santa Fe, New Mexic0) and pretty decent editing. They mystery itself was alright but not riveting.
The story (and series) revolves around Maddie Alwin - a member of the wealthy Astor family - who has relocated from New York to Santa Fe after the death of her husband in the first world war. A burgeoning artist, she revels in the incredibly beauty of Santa Fe and the vibrant arts community. In this installment, her cousin Gwen (another Astor and acting hopeful) has come to town as part of a movie shoot filled with glamorous Hollywood types. It doesn't take long before a key (and very disliked) member of the movie's production team is found dead. Is it suicide or foul play? And what will Maddie do once her cousin has been charged with murder?
April 27, 2019
It’s the Jazz Age in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and local resident and artist Maddie Vaughn-Alwin is enjoying the life she’s created for herself. Then renowned Hollywood director Luther Bishop and some of the biggest stars around, including Luther’s wife Bridget, roll into town to film Bishop’s latest movie – a Western. Maddie’s cousin Gwen Astor has a bit part in the movie, and unknown to Maddie, is involved in an affair with Luther.
When Bishop is found hanged in his office, murder is suspected, and Gwen is soon arrested for the crime. Maddie goes to work to figure out what really happened and who is responsible for the director’s death. Luther Bishop had plenty of enemies, so there is no shortage of suspects.
Readers will enjoy getting to know Maddie and her friends and colleagues in this winning whodunit.
When Bishop is found hanged in his office, murder is suspected, and Gwen is soon arrested for the crime. Maddie goes to work to figure out what really happened and who is responsible for the director’s death. Luther Bishop had plenty of enemies, so there is no shortage of suspects.
Readers will enjoy getting to know Maddie and her friends and colleagues in this winning whodunit.
September 23, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance copy of this book.
Santa Fe in the 1920s. A perfect setting and wonderfully drawn. This is the second book in the series but the first that I've read.
The movies have come to Santa Fe. And one night Gwen Astor appears at her cousin, Madeline's house, in a wretched state. The two women were raised together, attended the same schools, and have escaped their former New York society lives. Madeline feels the need to investigate and protect her cousin which leads to her finding a murder and investigating.
Some of the characters are drawn a little too lightly, others seem rather stereotypical, but I was drawn in by the setting and enjoyed the mystery.
Santa Fe in the 1920s. A perfect setting and wonderfully drawn. This is the second book in the series but the first that I've read.
The movies have come to Santa Fe. And one night Gwen Astor appears at her cousin, Madeline's house, in a wretched state. The two women were raised together, attended the same schools, and have escaped their former New York society lives. Madeline feels the need to investigate and protect her cousin which leads to her finding a murder and investigating.
Some of the characters are drawn a little too lightly, others seem rather stereotypical, but I was drawn in by the setting and enjoyed the mystery.
December 9, 2018
Maddie is certain that her cousin Gwen did not kill Luther Bishop, the director of the film she's got a bit part in. Set in Santa Fe during the silent film era, it features characters who are in some ways fish out of water. Maddie and Gwen are both "society" women who opted out- Maddie to be an artist and Gwen an actress. Keep the era in mind as you read and give Maddie a break when she does what we would likely find unacceptable in a cozy amateur detective of the 21st century. She's a good character. The rest of the cast is somewhat predictable but the mystery itself takes enough turns to keep you well entertained. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Don't worry if you didn't read the first one- I didn't and it was fine as a standalone.
February 6, 2024
The silent pictures come to New Mexico!!! But so does MURDER!!!
A Moment in Crime: A Santa Fe Revival Mystery by Amanda Allen is the second in the series following artist and war widow Maddie Vaughn-Alwin after resettling far from her new home heritage.
The Far Sunset is a new film being produced at a ranch near Santa Fe with several Hollywood actors and actresses in attendance. It’s a fun local event only marred by the suspicious death of the director…
I greatly enjoyed the first third of the book before the death due to all the Hollywood talk and discussion of fake movies and actors. I’m fully into those kind of stories.
The mystery was fine as this series continues to provide an alternative to those into stories like the Miss Fisher Mysteries and similar genre female investigators…
A Moment in Crime: A Santa Fe Revival Mystery by Amanda Allen is the second in the series following artist and war widow Maddie Vaughn-Alwin after resettling far from her new home heritage.
The Far Sunset is a new film being produced at a ranch near Santa Fe with several Hollywood actors and actresses in attendance. It’s a fun local event only marred by the suspicious death of the director…
I greatly enjoyed the first third of the book before the death due to all the Hollywood talk and discussion of fake movies and actors. I’m fully into those kind of stories.
The mystery was fine as this series continues to provide an alternative to those into stories like the Miss Fisher Mysteries and similar genre female investigators…
December 18, 2018
I really liked the setting for A Moment in Crime. Having been to Santa Fe the setting felt very real. I also liked the characters. Maddie Vaughn has had her troubles but finds that leaving New York and coming to Santa Fe fits her life. I also liked her dishy doctor. David provides just the right amount of support for Maddie and their burgeoning romance is just right for the time. The movie setting and the murder are laid out very well. I did think the book moved just a little bit slow. I kept waiting for someone to die and it took a long long time. A nice cozy mystery with a interesting historical setting.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
February 27, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for sending me the advanced digital copy of A Moment in Crime by This story is a mix of relatable characters in a period murder mystery brings the silent film era and Santa Fe to life..
This was my first book in the Santa Fe Revival Mystery series, but definately not my last. The book can be read as a stand alone story but I can't wait to know more of the characters.
There are a few spoilers for previous books but that just entices me to read more by this author.
Anyone who is a fan of the Miss Fischer series will quicly become adicted to this series.
This was my first book in the Santa Fe Revival Mystery series, but definately not my last. The book can be read as a stand alone story but I can't wait to know more of the characters.
There are a few spoilers for previous books but that just entices me to read more by this author.
Anyone who is a fan of the Miss Fischer series will quicly become adicted to this series.
November 22, 2018
1922 Santa Fe and the film industry had arrived in town with the shooting of a film. As does Maddie Vaughn-Alwin’s cousin aspiring actress Gwen Astor. But murder also arrives.
A cozy mystery which took a long time to develop into a mystery. Unfortunately there didn't seem to be much investigating until Madddie decides who the guilty party is, and I didn't particularly take to the main character either. Although the second in the series it can easily be read as a standalone book.
A NetGalley Book
A cozy mystery which took a long time to develop into a mystery. Unfortunately there didn't seem to be much investigating until Madddie decides who the guilty party is, and I didn't particularly take to the main character either. Although the second in the series it can easily be read as a standalone book.
A NetGalley Book
July 7, 2020
I wanted to like this book - honest.ly, I did. And I tried, giving it more effort than I normally give a book that is taxing. I just couldn’t. The use of descriptive prose is important in a story, but it seemed to bog the story down. Too much description was almost overwhelming. I remember needing to find a light read after finishing a Tom Clancy because there was so much detail. In that case, it was all necessary. In this case, it wasn’t. Just too much.
August 10, 2018
A Moment in Crime is a cozy mystery set in Santa Fe, New Mexico (a Santa Fe Revival Mystery series). A movie production company comes to town and Madeline, a former New York socialite turned painter is stunned when her cousin, Gwen Astor arrives on her doorstep in a terrible emotional state.
An inspiring sleuth comes face to face with the biggest names Hollywood in this dramatic whodunit!
An inspiring sleuth comes face to face with the biggest names Hollywood in this dramatic whodunit!
August 10, 2018
Not only is this book a fabulous mystery but it gives a realistic insight into the world of 1922, and especially the world of silent pictures. Set in Santa Fe it really makes for excellent reading, the characters are pretty believable and they envoke the feelings of the time and era. The mystery was solid and a really god read, one that you really don't want to put down till it’s finished.
May 11, 2021
Did this book have an editor? It was an outline with a couple of paragraphs thrown in to plump it up. Too many inconsistencies, no connection between ideas and actions, descriptions of scenery limited to the sun was bright, the skies were clear and there were mountains. Characters didn't have personality but they were beautiful or handsome or caricatures.
June 28, 2021
This story is set in Santa Fe in 1922 and is centered around a movie being shot in the area. The main character is Maddie Vaughan-Alwin whose cousin is in the movie being shot. This is the time of silent films and everyone involved is afraid of scandal. The director of the film is murdered and everyone disliked the man so lots of suspects. The book was quick easy read.
August 30, 2021
While still a good cozy mystery set in 1920’s Santa Fe, this second in the series seemed to repeat character musings quite a bit, particularly thoughts of childhood and home. It was annoying enough to detract from enjoyment of the book. Aside from that, decent story about murder on a silent film set.
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