Rhapsody in Red

Preston Barclay Mystery #1

by Donn E. Taylor

It was a bad day to find a corpse on campus. Preston Barclay is a self-made recluse (and he likes it that way). Teaching college history allows him time to grieve the loss of his pianist wife and find relief from the musical hallucinations that have been playing in his head since her death. But when he and headstrong colleague, Mara Thorn, discover the body of another instructor on campus, Press’s monotonous solitude is shaken up. When the preliminary evidence singles out Press and Mara, they must take some chances, including trusting each other, to build their own defense by bending the rules just a little bit. They form an unlikely alliance to stay ahead of the police, the college’s wary and incompetent administration, and whoever is trying to get away with murder. Or else they both might end up unemployed, behind bars, or worse...

Genres: Mystery, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Mystery Thriller, Humor

368 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2008

About the author

I'm working now as a novelist and poet, also teaching at writers' groups and conferences. In a prior incarnation I served in two wars with the U.S. Army. Afterwards, I taught English literature at two liberal arts colleges. The World's Perfect Woman consented to honor me in marriage, and we enjoyed six decades together until the Lord needed another alto for His heavenly choir. I live in the woods near Houston, TX, writing fiction, poetry, and essays on current topics.

Reviews

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a very entertaining and intriguing story. You can tell the author is very knowledgeable in literature and music as there are various references throughout the story. There is also a strong Christian message in the story. It definitely kept me guessing. If you enjoy suspenseful mysteries then this is the book for you!

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and kept me guessing to the very end. Loved the interaction between Preston and Mara. Enough humor to balance the suspense. Very satisfying read. Highly recommend.

[Ejayen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very funny. A little bit wild. Not overly tied up.

[Ron · Rating 3 out of 5]

The plot is fun, storytelling good, but the mechanics are poor.

Great development of the plot (except for the villain monologuing before he shoots the hero. But at least he does shoot the hero. ;-)) with increasing tension,confusion and danger.

The lead female is two-dimensional, which may be excusable since she is reported solely from the point of view of the protagonist, and he's not sure about her.

Taylor's downfall is his "on the nose" reporting. He sets up several intriguing situations or word plays, such as bassoon music in the hero's head whenever the college dean is present, then spoils it by then explaining the pun with buffoon (we got it), and by repeating it. Interesting, only Dead Dean had such a liet motif. Many details are over described or explained repeatedly.

The tone is so preachy that perhaps only Christians will tolerate the book.

[Ane Mulligan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Donn Taylor's delightful sense of humor flows onto the pages of Rhapsody in Red. He's taken one reclusive professor, coerced him into playing mediator between two fellow educators, and then accused him of murdering one of them. Add to that a philharmonic orchestra performing in this professor's head. Then top it all off with a few masterful plot twists, and you've got one of the most memorable characters we've seen this year. Noel Reviews and I give it a high recommendation.

[Mary Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun mystery to solve from Donn Taylor. His novels come complete with musical accompaniment, and though I rarely recognized the tunes, I was usually able to discern the mood of the music from the text. I thoroughly enjoy Dr. Preston Barclay's adventures on university campuses. Am looking forward to his next one.

[Emily Yager · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written murder mystery. The suspense is well balanced with a touch of humor throughout. I love a mystery that keeps me guessing until the end. A fun and enjoyable read.

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

What did Professor Mara Thorn (35, Overton U; religious studies, Wiccan Rede), go see Dr. Preston Barclay (narrator, recluse, PhD Professor; history, retired US Army sp. Ops., ROTC) about?
Center for the Natural Sciences. Professor Thorn, & Professor Barclay went to see Dee Laila Sloan (40+, Nursing chemistry instructor, BS; home econ).
There was blood everywhere, she had ben murdered.
Dean Dr. Dean Billig (VP Academic Affairs, PhD; MS; Psychology), & Sergeant Ron Spencer (Overton PD), soon arrived, as did many others.

Captain Clyde Staggart (55, Overton PD Homicide) soon arrived at the crime scene.
Assisted Living Center. Professor Thorn, & Professor Barclay went to speak with Dr. Lincoln Sheldon (retired history dept. chair/Professor) about the murder.
A eulogy was held on campus for Laila.
What were the 2 amateur sleuths: Professor Thorn (nee Alice Thornton), & Dr. Barclay finding out in their investigations?

Alfalfa Heights farm village. Dr. Barclay, & Professor “Cupcake” Thorn went to see Sophie Sloan (80+, Laila’s mother).
Bi-County Consolidated HS. Dr. Barclay, & Professor “Cupcake” Thorn went to visit with Principal Morris Wimberly.
Will the murder mystery be solved & someone brought to justice?

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written murder mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free author; Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas; LPC books; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Debbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you are looking for a Christian read, "Rhapsody in Red" by Donn Taylor isn't a book I would recommend. It is a clean read as for as no sex scenes or cursing. But it did start out with making me think it would have a different story line because the murder victim liked to touch people that didn't want to be touched. It does have church attenance a couple of times for a few of the characters . It has the main character thinking he needs to pray but doesn't. It does has the two main characters returning back to God at the end of the book. I am sorry if that was a spoiler alert but I don't think it is because that isn't the theme of this book.

I did like the mystery part of this story and yes I know the book is fiction, but as a Christian reader I find much to dislike about this book. I knows that on this blog tour the book is listed as a mystery but if you go to Amazon, you will see it is also listed in Christian Suspense. I really question that, yes I did mention a few things above that might make it so. But, here is my dilemma with this book

1 a Christian college that don't want crosses on it grounds

2. Hiring someone who is a Wiccan

3 Having board meeting about having Coed dorms.

4 And others


I think the reason I"m not fond of this book 100% besides what I have already listed is because the main character has musical hallucinations from classical music and I didn't know what he was hearing and when I read I want to be able to feel at least some of what the characters feel and their emotions. The characters were quoting quotes from books that I have never read like Christopher Marlowe and quotes from Socrates. I realize this is no fault of the author but it is my honest thoughts.

If you want a Suspensful novel that really keeps you guessing to the end who the murderer is than "Rhapsody in Red" by Donn Taylor is one that I would recommend.

Even through this book isn't one of my favorites, I have to say I want to read the next in the series too see what happens between the two main characters.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Carol Keen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is a well done story! It's got music and literature. Faith, and flawed, realistic, characters. It's got one of my favorite things, a good who-done-it. Suspense wasn't left out and the pages go by very quickly. It pulls into many more current issues. Such as, on "Christian campus" by classification, why would they ban the cross? (Ah, but there are places that have also banned the ten commandments that are Christian. That isn't in this book, but did bring home some good points!) Why would an organization called Christian hire what would be typically deemed an "occult" believer to work for them? In today's world there is more and more of this, and this author bravely put it forward in this book. Christian; Professor Barkley, is paired up with a Wiccan, Mara. She's just been hired on at the collage. These two were an unlikely odd couple to solve this murder with opposing beliefs and backgrounds. However, they work together as a team to solve this crime and thus opening the "door" for plenty of discussion and introspection.

I was thrilled that the prayers and situations felt so realistic. They aren't fluffed or pulled into something that real life often isn't, instead it is fast paced and gritty, yet clean. I simply loved all the song references! It was so much fun to see if knew them all. Then if that wasn't enough excitement, the other quotes from many famous books and literature were a second great game for me.

I can't give this unique book less than five stars. I will be reading more of this author's books. This one simply fascinated me, and would be outstanding as a TV series.

My digital copy came from Celebrate Lit. A positive review is never required. My reviews talk about what I think or felt about a book.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a mystery for lovers of literature or music. There are many enjoyable references to authors and poets and musical compositions. The characters are developed well. Press, a history professor, is a good amateur sleuth, aided by another amateur sleuth in the religion department. The plot moves along well with a good combination of action and character thought. The dialogue was fun with many witty interactions. The university setting revealed much of the tension involved in that academic world.

There is a strong Christian message in one sense as the transforming power of the gospel is clearly portrayed. There might be some unusual content for the Christian genre in another sense. Press, the hero, does some underhanded activities in order to prove his innocence. He steals keys and illegally enters homes and offices. That's not such a good witness, but then Press is sort of a lapsed believer. He has not been to church since the death of his wife years before and it shows in his actions.

Nonetheless, I liked the novel. It is quite entertaining. Taylor's writing style shows a wide knowledge of literature and music. The mystery plot is pretty good too. I'll be looking to see how Press solves his next murder adventure.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I sincerely hope that I can do justice to my review of Rhapsody in Red due to the fact that I struggled to stay awake while reading it. I do not blame the book because when I could actually stay awake I found it to be mostly engaging.

Once again Professor Preston Barclay finds himself involved in yet another mystery and this time he is the primary suspect. As he and another professor strive to find the real killer and prove themselves innocent, the evidence points to several suspects and Press is threatened multiple times.

The constant musical soundtrack that plays in the professor’s mind is still present. I do wish I was more educated on the many songs mentioned because I think that would have rendered the book even more entertaining. I also enjoyed the frequent puns and humor interspersed throughout the story. A bit of action and danger kept things moving along but putting together all the clues proved to be daunting. Any of the suspects could have been guilty and the big reveal was a surprise to me.

If you enjoy a mystery that makes you think, Rhapsody in Red as well as Taylor’s previous novels may be for you.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Connie Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rhapsody in Red is a mystery written by Donn Taylor. This is book 1 in the Preston Barclay Mystery series. This is the 2nd book that I have read by this author. This book was an interesting read. This is more of a mystery then a Christian Fiction book. While there is mention of church and some mention of the Gospel, the Gospel message is not overly pronounced. It is a clean read with no intimacy or cursing.

Preston Barclay is a professor and a Christian. Mara Thorn is a new edition to the university and a wiccan. Another professor is murdered and the police seem to have Preston suspected of their death. Preston and Mara team up (a very unlikely pair) to figure out who is really behind it. However they will bend a few rules in order to get this done. Now as a Christian, I had a problem with this.

The suspense is great, I was kept guessing until the end. The characters are well written, I enjoy the author's writing style. The author sprinkles wit and humor throughout the whole book and I enjoyed that.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

A college (no make that a University campus) where a murder takes place forces, two professors, to ultimately team up to attempt to solve the murder to avoid being arrested themselves. Add in a professor living in an assisted living facility, a law enforcement agency who sets out to make sure one of the professors – Preston Barclay – gets charged with the murder, and this book creates quite the plotline.

Preston, a widower, finds himself caught up in a murder investigation, thanks to Mara Thorn requesting his assistance in dealing with another professor. The two join forces to attempt to stay out of jail by solving the murder. The fact Preston constantly hears music in his head of various varieties and by different composers adds to this story. The ending of the story suits this book perfectly and the plot moves along at a good pace. So if you enjoy mysteries, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Randi Sampson]

Rhapsody in Red had such a unique style to it that I almost don't know how to describe it. It was quite slow... which I don't typically care for in a mystery at all... and yet for this character, it just seemed to fit perfectly. And for the story, it worked. It was quite different and had a bit of an unusual humor to it, and I couldn't help but enjoy it!

Press and Mara made for an interesting duo as they tried to figure out whodunnit and clear their names... it's always interesting to see amateur sleuths in the first book of a series, I think... and they certainly are that! The mystery was well written with a good amount of suspicion thrown here and there to keep you guessing through to the end. Overall, I found this to be a unique read and one that fans off clean mysteries are sure to enjoy!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Tess Ailshire · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only thing that kept this from a 5-star review is personal taste. I found the academic can override the action, and a few passages felt preachy. Neither of those things affect the story line, theme, pacing, or other structural elements of the book.

The concept of internal music - which most of us would simply call earworms - accompanying the protagonist's thoughts and actions - and the variety of musical familiarity - is intriguing. The brief mentions of discussions held in history classes provide a look at history most of us never see. I think of this book as somewhere between cozy mystery and mystery - for the Jeopardy! crowd. More than a passing understanding of comparative religions, history, philosophy, music composition and performance, English literature and grammar, and spycraft are all evident.

In many ways, this reminds me of the Neil S. Plakcy Golden Retriever series, on a slightly more academic level. I am actually looking forward to more in this series.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed reading books written by Donn E Taylor in the past and was happy to have the opportunity to read his latest, Rhapsody in Red. It is a suspense filled book that begins the Preston Barclay Mystery series. I thought it was pretty good. At first, I thought it was a little slow. But after the first three chapters, I was hooked and did not want to put it down until I was finished.

I am giving Rhapsody in Red four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean suspense. I look forward to reading the next installment from the Preston Barclay Mystery series, Murder Mezzo Forte, to see what happens next.

I received a copy of Rhapsody in Red from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[B.G. Clyde · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Thanksgiving holidays have taken a decidedly downward turn. Prof Barclay and an associate, Mara Thorn, discover a body on campus. Soon Barclay and Ms Thorn realize they are the chief suspects and the detective in charge sees no reason to look further. The unlikely team of Barclay and Thorn must work together to solve the mystery and clear their names. In addition to being accused of murder, Professor Barclay has an orchestra in his head playing a sound track to his life -- some tunes appropriate, some not.
This is a fun read and the mystery keeps you guessing until the end.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a pretty good read. Reclusive professor turned murderer? Or just set up? I really like the author’s sense of humor that is sprinkled throughout. The mystery is good.

I liked both the main characters, but I would have liked them to be more in depth. I liked that the mystery kept me guessing and the way everything unfolded. Enjoyable mystery to read.

3/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book. Over all I liked this story. It started off slow. A friend suggested that I look up the songs that go through Preston Barclay’s mind and listen to them as I am reading. I think that it would add to the story but I did not have the internet at that time. The story does pick up towards the end and what a ending. It makes me want to read the next book just to find out what happens between Preston and Mara.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this mystery and trying to figure out what was going on as the story went through a series of twists and turns. I really enjoyed Preston and the way that he copes with grief and life through hearing music in his head to go along with the situation that he is in. This is a delightful mystery to pick up! It kept me guessing and I enjoyed the characters.

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.

[Rita Pierrottie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raphsody in Red

This author did a good job of giving the reader several suspects and didn't give away the true culprit until the very end. However, there were a few times when I considered abandoning the book because there were too many unnecessary details which,at least for me, made the book drag on. That said, if book two is published I would probably read it.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written suspense!

A body discovered at a college starts Professor Preston and Professor Mara on a quest to discover the murderer. During their quest, they are both suspected of the murder. Who is framing them and why? They are getting too close to the truth. Donn Taylor has done a fine job of pulling the reader along to a surprise ending. Bravo!

[Jay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspense Right Up to the End

This book has great characters and a very unusual story. It kept my interest up to the very end. I plan to read it again to enjoy some of the offbeat humor again.

[Denise Parham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super interesting story of a college professor who works a murder case.

Extremely interesting and Professor Barclays love of classical music is a nice sideline. Great book. Held my attention all the way through.

[Michael Mcfarren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling

Very good who done it. All the clues were given if only I paid better attention. The story gripped me from first to last. Nice to read clean fiction without smut and innuendo or sitcom “humor”.

[Tricia Hungerford · Rating 4 out of 5]

purr-fect@bak.rr.com

This only the second book l have read in many years. I found it difficult to stay with actually. I used to be a voracious reader, but this was not high on my list of favorites. Too dry, methinks.

[Joy Kidney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an engrossing murder mystery by an academic with a sense of humor. Lots of suspects, and if you've wrestle with faith, and you're a fan of classical music and literature, you'll enjoy it even more.

[Teresa Merriman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Rhapsody in Red by Don Taylor. It kept me either sitting on the edge of my chair or laughing. I love the characters and look forward to reading more in the series.

[Jane Henderson · Rating 1 out of 5]

Seriously, don't waste your time on this one! Way too drawn out, and not that interesting.